Avalokiteshvara Spiritual Response Mantra
Origin and Transmission Background
- No specific scripture: This mantra does not come from any particular lengthy Buddhist sutra; it belongs to the category of “dream-received mantras,” which later people obtained through recitation and mystical response.
- Recorded sources: The earliest verifiable record can be traced back to the Ming dynasty’s Jiaxing Canon—the Compendium of Daily Recitations from Various Sutras. Later, through the promotion of Ming-dynasty Master Lianchi (Yunqi Zhuhong) and Master Ouyi Zhixu, it was included in the Daily Recitations of the Chan School and later liturgy books, becoming an essential daily practice mantra in Buddhism.
- Historical anecdote: According to the Song-dynasty Record of Strange Events, there was once a farmer who, in order to heal his legs, sincerely recited Avalokiteshvara’s name every day. In a dream, he received these four verses from Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, and after reciting them for a hundred days, he recovered. Because of its extraordinary efficacy, later generations called this mantra the “Avalokiteshvara Spiritual Response Mantra.”
Main Benefits and Meaning
- Compassionate Deliverance from Suffering: The first half is the famous “Six-Syllable Great Bright Mantra,” symbolizing the boundless compassion of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva and capable of dispelling afflictions and karmic obstacles.
- Physical and Mental Settling: The latter section corresponds to the mantra power of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva and can help the reciter dispel fear, calm the mind, keep calamities at bay, and bring responses in seeking blessings and wisdom alike.
- Protection and Radiance: Constant recitation can bring the illumination of the Buddha’s light, making life, career, and relationships more auspicious and fulfilling, achieving the effect of attracting good fortune and avoiding misfortune.
The original text is as follows:
Om. Mani Padme Hum. Maha Jnana Chitta. Jitu Te Pata.
Jiti She. Na Vidari Ga. Sarva Artha.
Priti Sthaga. Na Purna. Na Priti.
Dyute Panna. Nama Ruci. Svaha.