Manjushri Bodhisattva Heart Mantra
Source in Chinese Esoteric Buddhism and Tang Esoteric Buddhism:
The commonly used mantra of Manjushri Bodhisattva in Chinese Buddhism and East Asian Esoteric Buddhism is“Om Samaya Satvam” (Sanskrit transliteration: Om samaya satvam).
- Scriptural source: It mainly comes from the core scripture of Tang dynasty Esoteric Buddhism, the Mahāvairocana Sūtra of the Buddha’s Enlightenment and Empowerment by Supernatural Transformation (abbreviated as the “Great Sun Sutra”), Volume 2, “Universal Mantra Treasury Chapter.”
- Meaning of the mantra: It can be interpreted as “Homage to the seed of the nondual equality of beings and Buddhas,” symbolizing the inherent equality of sentient beings and Buddhas, and used to arouse the irreversible bodhicitta.
Common heart mantra in Tibetan Buddhism:
The most widely circulated short heart mantra in Tibetan Buddhism and modern folk practice is“Om Sugaya Svaha” (Sanskrit transliteration: Om sugaya svaha).
- Scriptural source: This mantra evolved from the related dharani ritual texts in the Avatamsaka Sutra, and is closely connected with Manjushri Bodhisattva’s core practice, the <Practice and Vows of Samantabhadra> (the Ten Great Vows).
- Meaning of the mantra: “Om” represents invoking the merits of all Buddhas; “Sugaya” is the transliteration of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva, meaning “wonderful practice” or “Samantabhadra”; “Svaha” means perfect accomplishment.
Effects and key points of practice:
- Repentance and purification of the mind: It can eliminate the karma of sins accumulated since beginningless time, making the mind clear and bright.
- Dispelling ignorance: It shakes the three poisons of greed, anger, and delusion within the heart, opening the light of one’s true nature.
- Alignment of vows and practice: Combined with Samantabhadra’s Ten Great Vows, it stabilizes the mind and increases compassion and tolerance.
- Protection of one’s natal deity: It is the exclusive guardian deity for people born under the zodiac signs of Dragon and Snake, especially suitable for seeking success in one’s career and averting misfortune and calamity.
The original text is as follows:
Om Sugaya Svaha