Saturday, June 21, 2008

OM MANI PADME HUM





The Six Character True Words (OM MANI PADME HUM) also known as the Six Character Great Bright Mantra, is the profound, wonderful, original heart (mind) of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara (the Bodhisattva Who Observes the World’s Sound). It’s merits and virtue are immeasurable, limitless and inconceivable. If one were to uphold the recitation of the Six Character True Words, regardless of one’s whereabouts, one will be protected by all the Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, as well as gods, dragon and others of the eightfold division. It is able to cut off one’s ignorance and open up one’s wisdom; subdue demons and heal illnesses; dispel calamities and lengthens life; bestow immeasurable blessings and wisdom, and gain profound tranquility. It can save and alleviate hundreds and thousands of suffering and difficulty.

Immeasurable aeons ago, after becoming a Buddha, Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara was known as the Tathagata Who Clearly Understands the True Law. To accomplish his perfection of Bodhisattvahood, with great compassionate vow power, he swore a deep magnificent vow to universally save and enlighten all living beings everywhere throughout the world in the ten directions.

Therefore, if one were to hear the name of Avalokitesvara and mindfully chant his name (NA MO GUAN SHI YIN PU SA), all suffering and adversity could be alleviated. Being mindful of his name as well as his compassion and kindness, one should bring forth the resolve with a sincere heart to worship and make offerings; and constantly upholding the recitation of the Bodhisattva’s name, unlimited offences will be eradicated and one will receive immeasurable blessings. If one were to transfer one’s merits and virtue accrued from one’s cultivation, and vow to be reborn in Amitabha’s Land of Ultimate Bliss, at the end of one’s life one will be reborn according to one’s vow. Henceforth, transcending birth and death; be eternally liberated from the wheel of transmigration; forthwith accomplish Buddhahood and immediately obtain the perfect unsurpassed Bodhi. Whether one recites the Bodhisattva’s name or recites the Bodhisattva’s Six Character True Words, the merits and virtue are level and equal.

Now, one has met this extremely difficult and rare superior cause (affinity) to be able to hear the Bodhisattva’s Six Character True Words, His sacred name as well as its merits and virtue, how could one not befittingly rejoice and cherish it. With sincerity and gratitude, one should be glad to believe and receive it; and if one should observe and practise in accordance with the teachings, one could personally obtain unlimited benefit.