What is a mantra? A mantra is a symbolic combination of specific syllables and phrases representing the revered titles and powers of particular deities or Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. It has existed since the earliest tribal religions, and mantras have been transmitted, used, and revered in both Eastern and Western cultures.
Assist in subconscious training,
Mantras, known in Sanskrit as dharani or true words, are secret utterances emitted by Buddhas and Bodhisattvas during meditation, flowing from their intrinsic true mind. The meaning of these sacred mantras encompasses boundless textual interpretations and infinite merits."Within one Dharma, they hold all Dharmas; within one text, they hold all texts. Encompassing boundless virtues, they are thus called the 'Endless Treasury.'" Because there are innumerable Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, mantras are also countless and beyond reckoning.
To recite all is equivalent to reciting one; to recite one mantra is equivalent to reciting all.
Of course, the most crucial aspect of chanting mantras is the harmonious integration of the three mysteries:
First, the hands must form mudras, which constitutes the body secret;
Second, the mouth must recite the mantra, which is the mouth seal;
Third, the mind must visualize the seed syllable, which constitutes the mind-seal.
The Three Secrets in Correspondence: Recite the mantra with the mouth, Form the mudra with the hands, Visualize the seed syllable with the mind— Body, speech, and mind— All three actions operate simultaneously.
If one can recite the mantra with the three secrets in harmony, the merit will be even greater.
