Ven. Thích Trừng Sỹ Pháp Nhãn Temple
With deep gratitude to the Teachers who have taught us secular knowledge and Dharma knowledge, especially wisdom, virtue, and meditation, bowing the heads to pay homage to the Triple Gem permanently residing in the three lifetimes and ten directions. O
With deep gratitude to the parents who have given us the birth, upbringing, and education, bowing the heads to pay homage to the Triple Gem permanently residing in the three lifetimes and ten directions. O
With deep gratitude to donors and benefactors who have supported us with the robes, food, shelters, and medications necessarily in the daily life, bowing the heads to pay homage to the Triple Gem permanently residing in the three lifetimes and ten directions. O
With deep gratitude to the national heroes who have the great merit of founding the country, building the country, defending the country, and developing the country richly and peacefully from ancient time until now, and deep gratitude to the countries where we were born, grow up, live, and work, bowing the heads to pay homage to the Triple Gem permanently residing in the three lifetimes and ten directions. O
May we be happy
May we be healthy
May we be peaceful
May we be free from suffering, greed, anger, delusion, hatred, violence, ignorance, wrong view, etc.
May the Buddha and Bodhisattvas bless and protect all anytime and anywhere.
Namo Buddhaya. Namo Dharmaya. Namo Sanghaya.
(Bell, Bell, Bell)
Respectfully pay homage to the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha, the path of practicing peace, joy, happiness, understanding, and love for the many right here in the present life. Namo Dharmaya.
Respectfully pay homage to the harmonious and peaceful Sangha of the Buddha, the Community of cultivated people who vow to live their lives of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding to benefit oneself and other people right here and right now in the present life. Namo Sanghaya.
As bright as the northern star,
Let us come back and take refuge in
the Teacher of gods and human beings.
The precious lotus blossoms on the enlightened pedestal,
The halo shines in all directions.
Wisdom is beyond the dharma realms,
Loving-kindness and compassion permeate all the mountains and rivers.
I have just seen the Buddha’s perfect countenance,
I respectfully offer the Buddha my whole sincere heart,
I forward wholeheartedly to praise for the Noble Triple Gem.
Diligence in the Dharma path is well cultivated.
Shows the way of peace to living things and living beings,
has virtuous, good, and noble signs,
The Buddha’s wisdom and compassion are perfect.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Buddha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Dharma that is the bright way,
Instructs people to escape the realm of delusion,
Leads us to return to true home
In order to lead a life of awakening.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Dharma forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Sangha that is the beautiful Community in harmony
Travels on the joyful path together,
Cultivates to be freed from afflictions
In order to make life beautified.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Sangha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
We rely on the Triple Gem
on the path of Dharma learning,
know the Triple Gem of self-own mind,
vow to practice the Dharma diligently
in order to illuminate the heart of the Noble Triple Gem.
The Teacher is fully endowed with loving-kindness, compassion, wisdom, and virtue perfectly,
The teacher has skillfully crossed over to the shore of liberation, peace, joy, and happiness completely,
is very practical in the present,
has value beyond time,
has the ability to transform one’s body and mind,
has the ability to extinguish defilements of greed, anger, delusion, arrogance, doubt, wrong view, etc.
Taking refuge in the Dharma, wise people who are capable of self-cultivation master the Dharma,
come and see,
come and hear,
come and learn
come and understand,
come and practice,
come and enjoy the flowers and fruits of peacefulness and happiness right here and right now in the present life. (Bell)
the Community following the Buddha Dharma practices the Buddha Dharma and lives correctly with the Buddha Dharma.
In the noble Community, there are those who have attained and are attaining the first holy fruition – the stream-enterers, the second holy fruition – the once-returners, the third holy fruition – the non-returners, and the fourth holy fruition – Arahants, comprise four pairs and eight fruitions of holy people, accomplish all aspects of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding.
This Community, deserving to be taken refuge in, served, respected, honored, admired, and made offerings to, is the good field of merit for everyone to sow and to plant. (Bell)
the Disciplines (Vinaya) – right mindfulness the Sangha has been receiving, practicing, spreading, and observing,
are the perfect precepts’ (sīla) bodies,
are the never broken precepts’ bodies,
are the never polluted precepts’ bodies,
are the never spotted precepts’ bodies,
are the never mingled precepts’ bodies,
are the precepts’ bodies praised and admired by wise people,
are the precepts’ bodies with the ability to protect freedom,
are the precepts’ bodies leading us to fearlessness,
are the precepts’ bodies leading us to virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding,
are the precepts’ bodies leading us to peacefulness and happiness forever.
May we be happy
May we be healthy
May we be peaceful
May we be free from suffering, greed, anger, delusion, hatred, violence, ignorance, etc.
May the Buddha and Bodhisattvas bless and protect all anytime and anywhere.
Namo Buddhaya. Namo Dharmaya. Namo Sanghaya.
(Bell, Bell, Bell)
(Bell, 3 times)
Respectfully pay homage to the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha, the path of practicing peace, joy, happiness, understanding, and love for the many right here in the present life. Namo Dharmaya.
Respectfully pay homage to the harmonious and peaceful Sangha of the Buddha, the Community of cultivated people who vow to live their lives of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding to benefit oneself and other people right here and right now in the present life. Namo Sanghaya.
(Bell, 3 times)
As bright as the northern star,
Let us come back and take refuge in
the Teacher of gods and human beings.
The halo shines in all directions.
Wisdom is beyond the dharma realms,
Loving-kindness and compassion permeate all the mountains and rivers.
I have just seen the Buddha’s perfect countenance,
I respectfully offer the Buddha my whole sincere heart,
I forward wholeheartedly to praise for the Noble Triple Gem.
Diligence in the Dharma path is well cultivated.
Respectfully pay homage to the Noble Triple Gem
Shows the way of peace to living things and living beings,
has virtuous, good, and noble signs,
The Buddha’s wisdom and compassion are perfect.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Buddha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Dharma that is the bright way,
Instructs people to escape the realm of delusion,
Leads us to return to true home
In order to lead a life of awakening.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Dharma forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Sangha that is the beautiful Community in harmony
Travels on the joyful path together,
Cultivates to be freed from afflictions
In order to make life beautified.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Sangha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
We rely on the Triple Gem
on the path of Dharma learning,
know the Triple Gem of self-own mind,
vow to practice the Dharma diligently
in order to illuminate the heart of the Noble Triple Gem.
now we have a chance
to see, study, and to practice,
we vow to realize its true meaning.
(Bell, 3 times)
Discourse on A Person Knowing the Best Way to Live Alone
Do not pursue the past,
Do not lose yourself in the future
The past is not any longer,
The future has not yet come.
Looking deeply at life as it is
in the very here and now
A practitioner dwells
in the stability and freedom.
We must be diligent today
To wait until tomorrow is too late
Health will get weaker and weaker
We cannot practice.
Death comes to us suddenly
It is very difficult for us to know it in advance.
A person knows how to dwell in
Both day and night in mindfulness
The Buddha calls him or her as
the person who knows the best way to live alone.
(Bell, 3 times)
May we be happy
May we be healthy
May we be peaceful
May we be free from suffering, greed, anger, delusion, hatred, violence, ignorance, etc.
May the Buddha and Bodhisattvas bless and protect all anytime and anywhere.
According to the place where I dwell strongly in Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma understanding, and Dharma joy, I feel forever happy and peaceful. (Bell)
Be direct toward all living things and living beings
We and all human beings
Can realize the Buddha’s way together.
Namo Buddhaya. Namo Dharmaya. Namo Sanghaya.
(Bell, Bell, Bell)
Respectfully pay homage to the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha, the path of practicing peace, joy, happiness, understanding, and love for the many right here in the present life. Namo Dharmaya.
Respectfully pay homage to the harmonious and peaceful Sangha of the Buddha, the Community of cultivated people who vow to live their lives of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding to benefit oneself and other people right here and right now in the present life. Namo Sanghaya.
As bright as the northern star,
Let us come back and take refuge in
the Teacher of gods and human beings.
The precious lotus blossoms on the enlightened pedestal,
The halo shines in all directions.
Wisdom is beyond the dharma realms,
Loving-kindness and compassion permeate all the mountains and rivers.
I have just seen the Buddha’s perfect countenance,
I respectfully offer the Buddha my whole sincere heart,
I forward wholeheartedly to praise for the Noble Triple Gem.
Diligence in the Dharma path is well cultivated.
Respectfully pay homage to the Noble Triple Gem
Shows the way of peace to living things and living beings,
has virtuous, good, and noble signs,
The Buddha’s wisdom and compassion are perfect.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Buddha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Dharma that is the bright way,
Instructs people to escape the realm of delusion,
Leads us to return to true home
In order to lead a life of awakening.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Dharma forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Sangha that is the beautiful Community in harmony
Travels on the joyful path together,
Cultivates to be freed from afflictions
In order to make life beautified.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Sangha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
We rely on the Triple Gem
on the path of Dharma learning,
know the Triple Gem of self-own mind,
vow to practice the Dharma diligently
in order to illuminate the heart of the Noble Triple Gem.
For refuge, I go to the Dharma for the first time, the second time, and for the third time. (Bell)
May the merit of this practice benefit all living things and living beings.
May the Buddha and Bodhisattva bless and protect all anytime and anywhere.
Bodhi, the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha turns noble and stately. According to the place where I dwell strongly in Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma understanding, and Dharma joy, I feel forever happy and peaceful. (Bell)
Namo Buddhaya. Namo Dharmaya. Namo Sanghaya.
(Bell, Bell, Bell)
Respectfully pay homage to the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha, the path of practicing peace, joy, happiness, understanding, and love for the many right here in the present life. Namo Dharmaya.
Respectfully pay homage to the harmonious and peaceful Sangha of the Buddha, the Community of cultivated people who vow to live their lives of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding to benefit oneself and other people right here and right now in the present life. Namo Sanghaya. (Bell)
As bright as the northern star,
Let us come back and take refuge in
the Teacher of gods and human beings.
The precious lotus blossoms on the enlightened pedestal,
The halo shines in all directions.
Wisdom is beyond the dharma realms,
Loving-kindness and compassion permeate all the mountains and rivers.
I have just seen the Buddha’s perfect countenance,
I respectfully offer the Buddha my whole sincere heart,
I forward wholeheartedly to praise for the Noble Triple Gem.
Diligence in the Dharma path is well cultivated.
Respectfully pay homage to the Noble Triple Gem
Shows the way of peace to living things and living beings,
has virtuous, good, and noble signs,
The Buddha’s wisdom and compassion are perfect.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Buddha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Dharma that is the bright way,
Instructs people to escape the realm of delusion,
Leads us to return to true home
In order to lead a life of awakening.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Dharma forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Sangha that is the beautiful Community in harmony
Travels on the joyful path together,
Cultivates to be freed from afflictions
In order to make life beautified.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Sangha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
We rely on the Triple Gem
on the path of Dharma learning,
know the Triple Gem of self-own mind,
vow to practice the Dharma diligently
in order to illuminate the heart of the Noble Triple Gem.
Bodhi, the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha turns noble and stately. According to the place where I dwell strongly in Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma understanding, and Dharma joy, I feel forever happy and peaceful. (Bell)
Respectfully pay homage to the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha, the path of practicing peace, joy, happiness, understanding, and love for the many right here in the present life. Namo Dharmaya.
Respectfully pay homage to the harmonious and peaceful Sangha of the Buddha, the Community of cultivated people who vow to live their lives of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding to benefit oneself and other people right here and right now in the present life. Namo Sanghaya.
As bright as the northern star,
Let us come back and take refuge in
the Teacher of gods and human beings.
The precious lotus blossoms on the enlightened pedestal,
The halo shines in all directions.
Wisdom is beyond the dharma realms,
Loving-kindness and compassion permeate all the mountains and rivers.
I have just seen the Buddha’s perfect countenance,
I respectfully offer the Buddha my whole sincere heart,
I forward wholeheartedly to praise for the Noble Triple Gem.
Diligence in the Dharma path is well cultivated.
Respectfully pay homage to the Noble Triple Gem
Shows the way of peace to living things and living beings,
has virtuous, good, and noble signs,
The Buddha’s wisdom and compassion are perfect.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Buddha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Dharma that is the bright way,
Instructs people to escape the realm of delusion,
Leads us to return to true home
In order to lead a life of awakening.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Dharma forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Sangha that is the beautiful Community in harmony
Travels on the joyful path together,
Cultivates to be freed from afflictions
In order to make life beautified.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Sangha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
We rely on the Triple Gem
on the path of Dharma learning,
know the Triple Gem of self-own mind,
vow to practice the Dharma diligently
in order to illuminate the heart of the Noble Triple Gem.
to see, study, and to practice,
we vow to realize its true meaning.
May I be free from enmity, disease, grief, and suffering.
May I take care of myself happily, freely, and calmly.
May they be free from enmity, disease, grief, and suffering.
May they take care of themselves happily, freely, and calmly.
May all beings in the southeast direction, southwest direction, northeast direction, and the northwest direction be safe, well, happy, and peaceful.
May they be free from enmity, disease, grief, and suffering.
May they take care of themselves happily, freely, and calmly.
May they be free from enmity, disease, grief, and suffering.
May they take care of themselves happily, freely, and calmly.
May they be free from enmity, disease, grief, and suffering.
May they take care of themselves happily, freely, and calmly. (Bell)
May my Parents, siblings, children, relatives, and lineages be free from enmity to one another, neither physical suffering nor mental suffering, keep the body and mind always peaceful.
May my Ancestors, Teachers, sisters, and brothers in the Dharma be free from enmity to one another, neither physical suffering nor mental suffering, keep the body and mind always peaceful.
May my disciples, students, fellow practitioners, colleagues, friends, and intellectuals be free from enmity to one another, neither physical suffering nor mental suffering, keep the body and mind always peaceful.
May all donors, givers, living things, and living beings on earth be free from enmity to one another, neither physical suffering nor mental suffering, keep the body and mind always peaceful.
(Bell, 3 times)
Express diligent vows and pay thankful respects to the Triple Gem
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the right Dharma. Namo Dharmaya. (Bell, one prostration)
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the Sangha. Namo Sanghaya. (Bell, one prostration)
May we be well,
May we be happy
May we be healthy
May we be peaceful
May we be free from suffering, greed, anger, delusion, hatred, violence, ignorance, etc.
May the Buddha and Bodhisattvas bless and protect all anytime and anywhere.
Bodhi, the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha turns noble and stately. According to the place where I dwell strongly in Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma understanding, and Dharma joy, I feel forever happy and peaceful. (Bell)
(Bell, Bell, Bell)
Respectfully pay homage to the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha, the path of practicing peace, joy, happiness, understanding, and love for the many right here in the present life. Namo Dharmaya.
Respectfully pay homage to the harmonious and peaceful Sangha of the Buddha, the Community of cultivated people who vow to live their lives of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding to benefit oneself and other people right here and right now in the present life. Namo Sanghaya.
As bright as the northern star,
Let us come back and take refuge in
the Teacher of gods and human beings.
The precious lotus blossoms on the enlightened pedestal,
The halo shines in all directions.
Wisdom is beyond the dharma realms,
Loving-kindness and compassion permeate all the mountains and rivers.
I have just seen the Buddha’s perfect countenance,
I respectfully offer the Buddha my whole sincere heart,
I forward wholeheartedly to praise for the Noble Triple Gem.
Diligence in the Dharma path is well cultivated.
Respectfully pay homage to the Noble Triple Gem
Shows the way of peace to living things and living beings,
has virtuous, good, and noble signs,
The Buddha’s wisdom and compassion are perfect.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Buddha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Dharma that is the bright way,
Instructs people to escape the realm of delusion,
Leads us to return to true home
In order to lead a life of awakening.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Dharma forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Sangha that is the beautiful Community in harmony
Travels on the joyful path together,
Cultivates to be freed from afflictions
In order to make life beautified.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Sangha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
We rely on the Triple Gem
on the path of Dharma learning,
know the Triple Gem of self-own mind,
vow to practice the Dharma diligently
in order to illuminate the heart of the Noble Triple Gem.
I vow to save them all.
Defilements are endless,
I vow to end them all.
Dharma cultivation is limitless,
I vow to practice it.
The Buddha’s way is supreme,
I vow to attain it.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the right Dharma. Namo Dharmaya. (Bell, one prostration)
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the Sangha. Namo Sanghaya. (Bell, one prostration)
May we be well,
May we be happy
May we be healthy
May we be peaceful
May we be free from suffering, greed, anger, delusion, hatred, violence, ignorance, etc.
May the Buddha and Bodhisattvas bless and protect all anytime and anywhere
Bodhi, the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha turns noble and stately. According to the place where I dwell strongly in Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma understanding, and Dharma joy, I feel forever happy and peaceful. (Bell)
(Bell, Bell, Bell)
CHANTING EIGHT
Respectfully pay homage to the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha, the path of practicing peace, joy, happiness, understanding, and love for the many right here in the present life. Namo Dharmaya.
Respectfully pay homage to the harmonious and peaceful Sangha of the Buddha, the Community of cultivated people who vow to live their lives of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding to benefit oneself and other people right here and right now in the present life. Namo Sanghaya.
As bright as the northern star,
Let us come back and take refuge in
the Teacher of gods and human beings.
The precious lotus blossoms on the enlightened pedestal,
The halo shines in all directions.
Wisdom is beyond the dharma realms,
Loving-kindness and compassion permeate all the mountains and rivers.
I have just seen the Buddha’s perfect countenance,
I respectfully offer the Buddha my whole sincere heart,
I forward wholeheartedly to praise for the Noble Triple Gem.
Diligence in the Dharma path is well cultivated.
Respectfully pay homage to the Noble Triple Gem
Shows the way of peace to living things and living beings,
has virtuous, good, and noble signs,
The Buddha’s wisdom and compassion are perfect.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Buddha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Dharma that is the bright way,
Instructs people to escape the realm of delusion,
Leads us to return to true home
In order to lead a life of awakening.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Dharma forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Sangha that is the beautiful Community in harmony
Travels on the joyful path together,
Cultivates to be freed from afflictions
In order to make life beautified.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Sangha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
We rely on the Triple Gem
on the path of Dharma learning,
know the Triple Gem of self-own mind,
vow to practice the Dharma diligently
in order to illuminate the heart of the Noble Triple Gem.
Bodhi, the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha turns noble and stately. According to the place where I dwell strongly in Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma understanding, and Dharma joy, I feel forever happy and peaceful. (Bell)
CHANTING NINE
Namo Tassa Bhagavato Arahato Samma SamBuddhassa
(Bell, 3 times)
Respectfully pay homage to the Buddha: The World-Honored One, the Worthy One, the Exalted One, the Fully Awakened and Enlightened One. Namo Buddhaya.
Respectfully pay homage to the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha, the path of practicing peace, joy, happiness, understanding, and love for the many right here in the present life. Namo Dharmaya.
Respectfully pay homage to the harmonious and peaceful Sangha of the Buddha, the Community of cultivated people who vow to live their lives of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding to benefit oneself and other people right here and right now in the present life. Namo Sanghaya.
Namo The Original Master Sakyamuni Buddhaya.
(Bell, 3 times)
Praising the Buddha
As wonderful as the lotus flower,
As bright as the northern star,
Let us come back and take refuge in
the Teacher of gods and human beings.
The precious lotus blossoms on the enlightened pedestal,
The halo shines in all directions.
Wisdom is beyond the dharma realms,
Loving-kindness and compassion permeate all the mountains and rivers.
I have just seen the Buddha’s perfect countenance,
I respectfully offer the Buddha my whole sincere heart,
I forward wholeheartedly to praise for the Noble Triple Gem.
Diligence in the Dharma path is well cultivated.
Namo The Original Master Sakyamuni Buddhaya.
(Bell, 3 times)
Respectfully pay homage to the Noble Triple Gem
The Buddha, who is the fully Awakened and Enlightened One,
Shows the way of peace to living things and living beings,
has virtuous, good, and noble signs,
The Buddha’s wisdom and compassion are perfect.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Buddha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Dharma that is the bright way,
Instructs people to escape the realm of delusion,
Leads us to return to true home
In order to lead a life of awakening.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Dharma forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Sangha that is the beautiful Community in harmony
Travels on the joyful path together,
Cultivates to be freed from afflictions
In order to make life beautified.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Sangha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
We rely on the Triple Gem
on the path of Dharma learning,
know the Triple Gem of self-own mind,
vow to practice the Dharma diligently
in order to illuminate the heart of the Noble Triple Gem.
Open Verse
The Dharma is deep and lovely,
now we have a chance
to see, study, and to practice,
we vow to realize its true meaning.
Namo The Fully Enlightened Buddhaya.
(Bell, 3 times)
Dhammapada Gathas by Heart, Part 1
The Golden Teachings of the Buddha
Mind precedes all thoughts or mental states,
Mind is their chief, mind-made are they.
If we speak or act
with the polluted mind,
suffering will follow us
as the wheel follows the foot of an animal that draws the carriage. (Dhammapada 01)
Mind precedes all thoughts or mental states,
Mind is their chief, mind-made are they
If we speak or act
with the purified mind,
happiness will follow us
as the shadow never leaves us. (Dhammapada 02)
Hatred conquers hatred.
In the world, this never happens.
Only loving-kindness, compassion, and wisdom can conquer hatred
This is the eternal law. (Dhammapada 5)
One who lives contemplating the impurities,
Skillfully guards the senses,
Eats and drinks in moderation,
full of right confidence and diligence;
Mara cannot move him,
As the wind does not overthrow a rocky mountain. (Dhammapada 8)
One who wears the robe
but does not abandon defilements
is not self-controlled, lives untruly,
is not worthy to wear the robe. (Dhammapada 9)
One who abandons defilements,
skillfully cultivates virtue,
is self-controlled, and lives truthfully,
is indeed worthy to wear the robe. (Dhammapada 10)
Like a badly-roofed house
the rain penetrates it easily.
Likewise, one’s mind is ill-cultivated
Passion penetrates his mind easily. (Dhammapada 13)
Like a well-roofed house
the rain never penetrates it,
Likewise, one’s mind is well-cultivated,
Passion never penetrates it. (Dhammapada 14)
Sad now, sad in the future
Doing evil is sad for the whole life;
Sad person has the ruined mind
Seeing his own evil karmas being created all the time. (Dhammapada 15)
Happy now, happy in the future.
Doing good is happy for the whole life;
Happy person has the happy mind
Seeing his own good karmas being well cultivated. (Dhammapada 16)
Now suffered is next life suffered,
Doing evil is suffered for the whole life.
People suffered because they do evil
Being born in an evil realm, they will get much more suffered. (Dhammapada 17)
Now happy is next life happy,
Doing good is happy for the whole life;
People are happy because they do good,
Being born in a good realm, they will get much happier. (Dhammapada 18)
Though chanting many scriptures,
He does not practice the Dharma.
His mind is negligent and unrestrained;
as a cowherd counts other’s cows,
He does not enjoy the blessings of the holy life. (Dhammapada 19)
Though chanting few scriptures,
He practices the true Dharma.
His mind is always in mindfulness,
Transforming greed, anger, and delusion,
Not clinging to attachments,
He can enjoy the blessings of the holy life. (Dhammapada 20)
Heedfulness is the path to life,
heedlessness is the path to death.
The heedful do not die,
the heedless are like the dead already. (Dhammapada 21)
Clearly understanding the difference,
Wise people are always heedful,
Joyful, and not negligent.
Dwelling happily in the realm of noble Ones. (Dhammapada 22)
Those who constantly practice meditation,
are strongly determined to cultivate,
are freed from all bonds,
Attain Nirvana right here. (Dhammapada 23)
The foolish, the unwise,
live a life of indulgence.
The wise live without indulgence,
Like keeping a precious treasure. (Dhammapada 26)
Not intoxicated with sensual pleasures,
Not indulgent and negligent,
Those who practice meditation diligently,
Attains great happiness and joy. (Dhammapada 27)
Those who diligently cultivate heedfulness,
see fear in heedlessness
advance fast like a conflagration,
burn away all fetters and defilements. (Dhammapada 31)
Cultivated people who delight in heedfulness
are not afraid of heedlessness
Dwell stably in Nibbana
No longer fall away. (Dhammapada 32)
The subtle mind is very difficult to see,
but it is very easy to follow worldly desires.
Those who skillfully guard the mind,
always tend toward peace and joy. (Dhammapada 36)
The mind has no image or no form
Wandering everywhere
Those who skillfully subdue the mind
Are free from all bonds of defilements. (Dhammapada 37)
People with much ignorance
without right wisdom
do not understand the right Dharma
Confidence wavers very quickly. (Dhammapada 38 a)
The mind is free from craving,
Anger is eliminated,
Evil things are transformed,
Wise people have no fear. (Dhammapada 39)
Know the body as a fragile pottery,
Establish the mind as a firm fortress,
Defeat mara with the sword of wisdom,
Keep the victory without attachment. (Dhammapada 40)
All too soon this body
Will lie stretched out on the ground,
Cast aside, be devoid of consciousness,
Like a useless log of wood. (Dhammapada 41)
A foe harms a foe
A hater harms a hater
A person with an evil thought
always harms himself. (Dhammapada 42)
Parents or relatives
cannot help us.
Only we who are well-cultivated,
can take ourselves to greatness. (Dhammapada 43)
Just as bees come to flowers,
suck the nectar and fly away,,
but they do not damage the color and scent of the flowers;
Likewise, monastic people who go on alms-round from house to house,
but they do not affect the trust, faith, and generosity of almsgivers. (Dhammapada 49)
Do not look at the faults of other people,
Do not care about what they do or do not do.
Look deeply at ourselves.
What we have done or not done. (Dhammapada 50)
Like a beautiful flower
with color and scent;
Likewise, those who diligently study and practice the Buddha Dharma daily
will surely obtain peace and joy right here in the present life. (Dhammapada 52)
The scent of flowers cannot go against the wind,
but the scent of virtuous people can go against the wind
only the well-cultivated people shine brightly in all directions. (Dhammapada 54)
Sandalwood or lavender,
lotus or the jasmine great,
of these many fragrances
the scent of virtue is supreme. (Dhammapada 55)
Long is the night to the person who is wakeful;
long is the way to the traveler who is tired
long is worldly existence to the fools
who do not know the true Dharma. (Dhammapada 60)
A fool thinks he is the fool,
Thus, he becomes wise at least to that extent,
But the fool thinks he is wise,
Indeed, he is called a fool. (Dhammapada 63)
Do not associate with evil friends;
Do not associate with the vile.
Associate with good friends;
Associate with virtuous people. (Dhammapada 78)
A person who permeates the right Dhamma,
Lives happily and peacefully.
With the purified mind,
Wise people who are always joyful,
hear the teachings be expounded by the noble One. (Dhammapada 79)
Like a solid rock,
No wind can shake it,
So too, among praise and blame,
The wise are never moved. (Dhammapada 81 a)
A wise person is like a cliff,
No wind can shake him,
Whether praise or blame,
cannot move the eyebrows. (Dhammapada 81 b)
Just as a lake is deep,
still, and clear,
The wise hear the right Dharma,
Their minds are pure and peaceful. (Dhammapada 82)
Either in a village or in a deep forest
either in a valley or on a high hill
Wherever Arahants dwells,
that place is so delightful. (Dhammapada 98)
In Mahāvagga Number 19 and 20, when the disciples of the Buddha became more and more numerous, the Buddha taught his disciples as follows: “Oh dear disciples, do not go to the same direction, go out in different directions to propagate the Dharma to different kinds of people in the language of the country where you live. Bring your own cultivation, peace, joy, and happiness to the many. Out of peacefulness for the many, out of happiness for the many, out of peace, joy, and well-being for gods and human beings, go forth and spread the Buddha Dharma to all living things and living beings.
The Dharma of the Tathāgata is perfect at the beginning, perfect in the middle, and perfect in the end, both in the meaning and in the letters. Proclaim your holy and peaceful lives to the many all over the planet.
Taking Refuge in the Buddha
I take refuge in the Buddha, the One who shows me the way of loving-kindness, compassion, and wisdom in lifetime.
Having taken refuge in the Buddha, I clearly see the path of light and beauty in life.
Turning back and taking refuge in the Buddha in myself, I aspire to help all people soon recognize and develop their own enlightened nature.
Namo Buddhaya
Buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi
Dutiyampi buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi
Tatiyampi buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.
For refuge, I go to the Buddha for the first time, the second time, and for the third time. (Bell)
Taking Refuge in the Dharma
I take refuge in the Dharma, the way of practicing peace, joy, happiness, understanding, and love for the many right here in the present life.
Having taken refuge in the Dharma, I am learning and practicing the Noble Eightfold Path including virtue, meditation, and wisdom interconnected very closely with right view, right thought, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration.
Turning back and taking refuge in the Dharma in myself, I aspire to help all people fully master the way of practice and walk together on the path of liberation.
Namo Dharmaya
Dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi
Dutiyampi dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi
Tatiyampi dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.
For refuge, I go to the Dharma for the first time, the second time, and for the third time. (Bell)
Taking Refuge in the Sangha
I take refuge in the harmonious and peaceful Sangha of the Buddha, the Community of those who vow to live their lives of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding to benefit oneself and other people right here and right now in the present life.
Having taken refuge in the Sangha, I am enlightened, instructed, and supported by the Sanghabody on the way of practice.
Turning back and taking refuge in the Sangha in myself, I aspire to help all people build fourfold Communities, to embrace all beings and support their transformation.
Namo Sanghaya
Saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.
Dutiyampi saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi
Tatiyampi saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ Gacchāmi.
For refuge, I go to the Sangha for the first time, the second time, and for the third time. (Bell)
Express diligent vows and pay thankful respects to the Triple Gem
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the Buddha. Namo Buddhaya. (Bell, one prostration)
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the right Dharma. Namo Dharmaya. (Bell, one prostration)
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the Sangha. Namo Sanghaya. (Bell, one prostration)
May we be well,
May we be happy
May we be healthy
May we be peaceful
May we be free from suffering, greed, anger, delusion, hatred, violence, ignorance, etc.
May the Buddha and Bodhisattvas bless and protect all anytime and anywhere.
Bodhi, the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha turns noble and stately.
According to the place where I dwell strongly in Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma understanding, and Dharma joy, I feel forever happy and peaceful. (Bell)
Sharing the merit
Reciting the Sutras, practicing the way of awareness gives rise to benefits without limit. We vow to share the fruits with all beings. We vow to offer tribute to parents,
teachers, friends, and numerous beings who give guidance and support along the path.
Sadhu, lành thay, well-done, and excellence.
Namo Buddhaya. Namo Dharmaya. Namo Sanghaya.
(Bell, Bell, Bell)
.
CHANTING TEN
Namo Tassa Bhagavato Arahato Samma SamBuddhassa
(Bell. 3 times)
Respectfully pay homage to the Buddha: The World-Honored One, the Worthy One, the Exalted One, the Fully Awakened and Enlightened One. Namo Buddhaya.
Respectfully pay homage to the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha, the path of practicing peace, joy, happiness, understanding, and love for the many right here in the present life. Namo Dharmaya.
Respectfully pay homage to the harmonious and peaceful Sangha of the Buddha, the Community of cultivated people who vow to live their lives of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding to benefit oneself and other people right here and right now in the present life. Namo Sanghaya.
Namo The Original Master Sakyamuni Buddhaya.
(Bell, 3 times)
Praising the Buddha
As wonderful as the lotus flower,
As bright as the northern star,
Let us come back and take refuge in
the Teacher of gods and human beings.
The precious lotus blossoms on the enlightened pedestal,
The halo shines in all directions.
Wisdom is beyond the dharma realms,
Loving-kindness and compassion permeate all the mountains and rivers.
I have just seen the Buddha’s perfect countenance,
I respectfully offer the Buddha my whole sincere heart,
I forward wholeheartedly to praise for the Noble Triple Gem.
Diligence in the Dharma path is well cultivated.
Namo The Original Master Sakyamuni Buddhaya.
(Bell, 3 times)
Respectfully pay homage to the Noble Triple Gem
The Buddha, who is the fully Awakened and Enlightened One,
Shows the way of peace to living things and living beings,
has virtuous, good, and noble signs,
The Buddha’s wisdom and compassion are perfect.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Buddha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Dharma that is the bright way,
Instructs people to escape the realm of delusion,
Leads us to return to true home
In order to lead a life of awakening.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Dharma forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Sangha that is the beautiful Community in harmony
Travels on the joyful path together,
Cultivates to be freed from afflictions
In order to make life beautified.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Sangha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
We rely on the Triple Gem
on the path of Dharma learning,
know the Triple Gem of self-own mind,
vow to practice the Dharma diligently
in order to illuminate the heart of the Noble Triple Gem.
Open Verse
The Dharma is deep and lovely,
now we have a chance
to see, study, and to practice,
we vow to realize its true meaning.
Namo The Fully Enlightened Buddhaya.
(Bell, 3 times)
Dhammapada Gathas by Heart, Part 2
The Golden Teachings of the Buddha
there is no benefit at all,
Better to say the useful word,
After hearing it, we feel calm and peaceful. (Dhammapada 100)
there is no benefit at all,
Better to say one verse of the right Dharma
After hearing it, we feel calm and peaceful. (Dhammapada 102)
In battle, we can conquer thousands of enemies
but it is not easy for us to conquer ourselves.
Those who know how to conquer themselves
are the greatest victors. (Dhammapada 103)
Those who live a hundred years
do not see the arising and dissolving of all things.
Better to live a single day,
we can comprehend the arising and dissolving of all things. (Dhammapada 113)
If you do evil,
do not do it again.
Those who do evil
accumulate evil, will be subject to suffering. (Dhammapada 117)
If you do good,
you should do it more and more.
Those who do good
accumulate good, will definitely obtain peace and joy. (Dhammapada 118)
When we do good things,
though good retribution has not come to us yet,
the evil we did before,
it will be transformed little by little.
Do not think lightly about doing good,
Saying: “A little will not affect me.”
As water falls drop by drop for a long time,
the water jar will be overflowed.
Similarly, wise people accumulate full of merit
Due to their accumulating it gradually. Dhammapada 122)
When creating evil karmas,
we will definitely suffer their evil consequences.
The Buddha has taught his disciples
“Though flying up to the sky,
though diving under the bottom of the sea,
though hidden in the deep forest,
though hiding in the crowded places,
Finally, we cannot escape the evil karmas created by ourselves.” (Dhammapada 127)
Wandering through many lives.
I sought for a long time, but I could not find
the builder of this house;
Pain is birth again and again. (Dhammapada 153)
O Builder of this house, you are seen.
You shall not build a house again;
all you beams have given away,
rafters of the ridge decayed,
My mind has attained the Unconditioned.
Achieved is the end of craving. (Dhammapada 154)
Taking refuge in oneself
Do not take refuge in anyone else
Whoever skillfully subdue himself
is the greatest victor. (Dhammapada 160)
By oneself is evil done;
by oneself is one defiled.
by oneself is evil not done
by oneself is one purified;
Purity and impurity depend on oneself
No one can purify another. (Dhammapada 165)
Hard is it to gain a human birth,
Hard is to be alive,
Hard is to hear the right Dharma
hard is it to encounter the arising of the Buddhas. (Dhammapada 182)
Not to do evil
To do good
To purify one’s mind
This is the teaching of the Buddhas. (Dhammapada 183)
Those who take refuge in the Buddha, the Dhamma, and the Sangha, use the Right View to see the Four Noble Truths; Suffering, the cause of suffering, the cessation of suffering, and the Noble Eightfold Path leading to the transformation of suffering in life. (Dhammapada 190 & 191)
Hard is it to gain a human birth
Hard is it to find the Tathagata
Hard is it to hear the true Dharma
Hard is it to associate with the Sangha
Wherever we learn and practice the Buddha Dharma diligently,
there we definitely obtain peace and joy. (Dhammapada 193)
Happy is the birth of the Buddha;
Happy is the right Dhamma illuminating both gods and human beings;
Happy is the harmonious and peaceful Sangha that is the best field of merit for everyone to sow and to plant;
Happy is the fourfold community of lay Buddhist and Monastic devotees everywhere learning and practicing the Buddha Dharma together. (Dhammapada 194)
Indeed, we live very happily,
not hating anyone among those who hate;
among those who hate we live
without hating anyone. (Dhammapada 197)
Conquer anger by love.
Conquer evil by good.
Conquer the stingy by giving.
Conquer the liar by truth. (Dhammapada 223)
It is easy to see the faults of other people,
but it is not easy to see one’ own faults.
The Buddha has taught:
Whoever sees the faults of others;
like winnowing chaff in the wind,
like spitting saliva into the sky,
like spitting blood on others, his own mouth will be dirtied first,
The noble eightfold path is the best,
The four noble truths are the best,
Non clinging to afflictions is the best,
Whoever sees the eye of the right Dharma is the best. (Dhammapada 273)
Happy is honoring the mother
Happy is honoring the father
Happy is honoring the monastic Ones
Happy is honoring the virtuous and noble Ones. (Dhammapada 332 a)
Happy is filially respecting the Parents.
Happy is filially respecting the World-Honored Buddha.
Happy is filially respecting the monastic Ones.
Happy is filially respecting the Sangha practicing the Dharma together. (Dhammapada 332 b)
Happy is to develop the right confidence
Happy is not to do evil karma
Happy is to achieve wisdom. (Dhammapada 333 a)
To nurture virtue is so happy,
Right confidence is maturely developed for a long time
Evil karma we vow to stop right away,
To achieve wisdom right here and now is joyful. (Dhammapada 333 b)
The one who lives in this life,
Craving is well subdued,
Sorrow falls away from that person,
Like water falling on lotus leaves. (Dhammapada 336)
The Dharma flavor surpasses all flavors.
The Dharma joy surpasses all joys.
The end of craving surpasses all suffering. (Dhammapada 354)
Wholesome is the protection of the eye,
Wholesome is the protection of the ear
Wholesome is the protection of the nose,
Wholesome is the protection of the tongue. (Dhammapada 360)
Wholesome is the protection of the body,
Wholesome is the protection of speech,
Wholesome is the protection of the mind,
Those who protect all things very well
are freed from all suffering. (Dhammapada 361)
Those who dwell strongly in the Dharma
delight in the Dharma,
meditate on the Dharma,
remember the Dharma clearly, and
never forget and abandon the Dharma. (Dhammapada 364)
In Mahāvagga 19 and 20, when the disciples of the Buddha became more and more numerous, the Buddha taught his disciples as follows:
“Oh dear disciples, do not go to the same direction, go out in different directions to propagate the Dharma and teach sentient beings in the language of the country where we live. Bring your own cultivation, peace, joy, and happiness to teach other people. Out of peacefulness for the many, out of happiness for the many, out of peace, joy, and well-being for gods and human beings, go forth and spread the Buddha Dharma to all living things and living beings.
The Dharma of the Tathāgata is perfect at the beginning, perfect in the middle, and perfect in the end, both in the meaning and in the letters. Proclaim your holy and peaceful lives to the many all over the planet.”
Bodhi, the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha turns noble and stately. According to the place where we dwell strongly in Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma understanding, and Dharma joy, we feel forever happy and peaceful. (Bell)
Taking Refuge in the Buddha
I take refuge in the Buddha, the One who shows me the way of loving-kindness, compassion, and wisdom in lifetime.
Having taken refuge in the Buddha, I clearly see the path of light and beauty in life.
Turning back and taking refuge in the Buddha in myself, I aspire to help all people soon recognize and develop their own enlightened nature.
Namo Buddhaya
Buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi
Dutiyampi buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi
Tatiyampi buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.
For refuge, I go to the Buddha for the first time, the second time, and for the third time. (Bell)
Taking Refuge in the Dharma
I take refuge in the Dharma, the way of practicing peace, joy, happiness, understanding, and love for the many right here in the present life.
Having taken refuge in the Dharma, I am learning and practicing the Noble Eightfold Path including virtue, meditation, and wisdom interconnected very closely with right view, right thought, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration.
Turning back and taking refuge in the Dharma in myself, I aspire to help all people fully master the way of practice and walk together on the path of liberation.
Namo Dharmaya
Dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi
Dutiyampi dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi
Tatiyampi dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.
For refuge, I go to the Dharma for the first time, the second time, and for the third time. (Bell)
Taking Refuge in the Sangha
I take refuge in the harmonious and peaceful Sangha of the Buddha, the Community of those who vow to live their lives of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding to benefit oneself and other people right here and right now in the present life.
Having taken refuge in the Sangha, I am enlightened, instructed, and supported by the Sanghabody on the way of practice.
Turning back and taking refuge in the Sangha in myself, I aspire to help all people build fourfold Communities, to embrace all beings and support their transformation.
Namo Sanghaya
Saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.
Dutiyampi saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi
Tatiyampi saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ Gacchāmi.
For refuge, I go to the Sangha for the first time, the second time, and for the third time. (Bell)
Express diligent vows and pay thankful respects to the Triple Gem
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the Buddha. Namo Buddhaya. (Bell, one prostration)
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the right Dharma. Namo Dharmaya. (Bell, one prostration)
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the Sangha. Namo Sanghaya. (Bell, one prostration)
May we be well,
May we be happy
May we be healthy
May we be peaceful
May we be free from suffering, greed, anger, delusion, hatred, violence, ignorance, etc.
May the Buddha and Bodhisattvas bless and protect all anytime and anywhere.
Bodhi, the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha turns noble and stately.
According to the place where I dwell strongly in Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma understanding, and Dharma joy, I feel forever happy and peaceful. (Bell)
Sharing the merit
Reciting the Sutras, practicing the way of awareness gives rise to benefits without limit. We vow to share the fruits with all beings. We vow to offer tribute to parents, teachers, friends, and numerous beings who give guidance and support along the path.
Sadhu, lành thay, well-done, and excellence.
Namo Buddhaya. Namo Dharmaya. Namo Sanghaya.
(Bell, Bell, Bell)
Respectfully pay homage to the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha, the path of practicing peace, joy, happiness, understanding, and love for the many right here in the present life. Namo Dharmaya.
Respectfully pay homage to the harmonious and peaceful Sangha of the Buddha, the Community of cultivated people who vow to live their lives of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding to benefit oneself and other people right here and right now in the present life. Namo Sanghaya.
As bright as the northern star,
Let us come back and take refuge in
the Teacher of gods and human beings.
The precious lotus blossoms on the enlightened pedestal,
The halo shines in all directions.
Wisdom is beyond the dharma realms,
Loving-kindness and compassion permeate all the mountains and rivers.
I have just seen the Buddha’s perfect countenance,
I respectfully offer the Buddha my whole sincere heart,
I forward wholeheartedly to praise for the Noble Triple Gem.
Diligence in the Dharma path is well cultivated.
Respectfully pay homage to the Noble Triple Gem
Shows the way of peace to living things and living beings,
has virtuous, good, and noble signs,
The Buddha’s wisdom and compassion are perfect.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Buddha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Dharma that is the bright way,
Instructs people to escape the realm of delusion,
Leads us to return to true home
In order to lead a life of awakening.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Dharma forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Sangha that is the beautiful Community in harmony
Travels on the joyful path together,
Cultivates to be freed from afflictions
In order to make life beautified.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Sangha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
We rely on the Triple Gem
on the path of Dharma learning,
know the Triple Gem of self-own mind,
vow to practice the Dharma diligently
in order to illuminate the heart of the Noble Triple Gem.
WATERING THE SEEDS OF JOY
My mother, my father, they are in me.
When I look, I see myself in them.
The Buddha, the patriarchs, they are in me.
When I look, I see myself in them.
I am a continuation of my mother, my father, and my ancestors.
It is my aspiration to preserve and continue to nourish the seeds of goodness, skill, and happiness which I have inherited.
It is also my desire to recognize the seeds of fear and suffering
I have inherited, and step by step to transform them.
I am a continuation of the Buddha and my spiritual teachers.
It is my deep aspiration to preserve, nourish, and develop the seeds of understanding, love, and freedom which they have transmitted to me.
I desire to continue the career of the Buddha and my ancestral Teachers, and do my best to realize all that the Buddha and my ancestral Teachers expect of me.
In my daily life, I also want to sow the seeds of love and compassion in my own consciousness and in the heart of other people.
I am determined not to water the seeds of craving, aversion, and violence in myself and in others.
I know that if I practice all this in the right way, after only seven days, I will be able to change the situation, establish communication, smile and transform some suffering and increase my happiness.
I would like to beg the World-Honored One to witness what is in my heart.
With the mind and body in perfect unity, I bow my head and prostrate. (Bell)
THE REFUGE CHANT
Incense perfumes the atmosphere.
A lotus blooms and the Buddha appears.
The world of suffering and discrimination is filled with the light of the Rising Sun.
As the dust of fear and anxiety settles, with an open heart and one-pointed mind, I turn to the Three Jewels.
The Fully Enlightened One, beautifully seated, peacefully smiles, a living source of understanding and compassion
to the Buddha I go for refuge.
The path of mindful living, leading to healing, joy, and enlightenment, the way of peace,
to the Dharma I go for refuge.
The loving and supportive community of practice, realizing harmony, awareness, and liberation,
to the Sangha I go for refuge.
I am aware that the Three Jewels are within my heart.
I vow to realize them, practicing mindful breathing and smiling, looking deeply into things.
I vow to understand living beings and their suffering.
To cultivate compassion and loving kindness, to practice joy and equanimity.
I vow to offer joy to one person in the morning to help relieve the grief of one person in the afternoon.
Living simply and sanely with few possessions, keeping my body healthy.
I vow to let go of all worries and anxiety in order to be light and free.
I am aware that I owe so much to my parents, teachers, friends, and all beings.
I vow to be worthy of their trust, to practice wholeheartedly so that understanding and compassion will flower, helping living beings to be free from their suffering.
May the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha support my efforts. (Bell)
NOURISHING HAPPINESS
Sitting here in this moment, protected by the Sangha,
my happiness is clear and alive.
What a great fortune to have been born a human, to encounter the Dharma, to be in harmony with others, and to water the Mind of Love in this beautiful garden of practice.
The energies of the Sangha and mindfulness trainings are protecting and helping me not make mistakes or be swept along in darkness by unwholesome seeds.
With kind spiritual friends, I am on the path of goodness, illuminated by the light of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.
Although the seeds of suffering are still in me in the form of afflictions and habit energies, mindfulness is also there, helping me touch what is most wonderful within and around me.
I can still enjoy mindfulness of the six senses:
my eyes look peacefully upon the clear blue sky,
my ears listen with wonder to the songs of birds,
my nose smells the rich scent of sandalwood,
my tongue tastes the nectar of the Dharma,
my posture is upright, stable, and relaxed,
and my mind is one with my body.
If there were not a World-Honored One,
if there were not the wonderful Dharma,
if there were not a harmonious Sangha,
I would not be so fortunate to enjoy this Dharma happiness today.
My resources for practice are my own peace and joy.
I vow to cultivate and nourish them with daily mindfulness.
For my ancestors, family, future generations, and the whole of humanity, I vow to practice well.
In my society I know that there are countless people suffering,
drowned in sensual pleasure, jealousy, and hatred.
I am determined to take care of my own mental formations,
to learn the art of deep listening and using loving speech in order to encourage communication and understanding and to be able to accept and love.
Practicing the actions of a bodhisattva,
I vow to look with eyes of love and a heart of understanding.
I vow to listen with a clear mind and ears of compassion,
bringing peace and joy into the lives of others,
to lighten and alleviate the suffering of living beings.
I am aware that ignorance and wrong perceptions
can turn this world into a fiery hell.
I vow to walk always upon the path of transformation,
producing understanding and loving kindness.
I will be able to cultivate a garden of awakening.
Despite impermanent life,
Despite birth, sickness, aging, and death,
I have had a path of practice,
There is nothing to fear any longer.
It is a great happiness to be alive in the Sangha
with the practice of mindfulness trainings, concentration, and wisdom
to live every moment in stability and freedom,
to take part in the work of relieving others’ suffering,
the career of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.
In each precious moment, I am filled with deep gratitude.
I bow before the World-Honored One.
Please bear witness to my wholehearted gratitude,
embracing all beings with hearts of great compassion. (Bell)
Namo The Original Master Sakyamuni Buddhaya.
(3 times) O
Express diligent vows and pay thankful respects to the Triple Gem
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the Buddha. Namo Buddhaya. (Bell, one prostration)
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the right Dharma. Namo Dharmaya. (Bell, one prostration)
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the Sangha. Namo Sanghaya. (Bell, one prostration)
May we be well,
May we be happy
May we be healthy
May we be peaceful
May we be free from suffering, greed, anger, delusion, hatred, violence, ignorance, etc.
May the Buddha and Bodhisattvas bless and protect all anytime and anywhere.
Bodhi, the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha turns noble and stately. According to the place where I dwell strongly in Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma understanding, and Dharma joy, I feel forever happy and peaceful. (Bell)
Sharing the merit
Reciting the Sutras, practicing the way of awareness gives rise to benefits without limit. We vow to share the fruits with all beings. We vow to offer tribute to parents, teachers, friends, and numerous beings who give guidance and support along the path.
Sadhu, lành thay, well-done, and excellence.
Namo Buddhaya. Namo Dharmaya. Namo Sanghaya.
(Bell, Bell, Bell)
Respectfully pay homage to the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha, the path of practicing peace, joy, happiness, understanding, and love for the many right here in the present life. Namo Dharmaya.
Respectfully pay homage to the harmonious and peaceful Sangha of the Buddha, the Community of cultivated people who vow to live their lives of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding to benefit oneself and other people right here and right now in the present life. Namo Sanghaya.
As bright as the northern star,
Let us come back and take refuge in
the Teacher of gods and human beings.
The precious lotus blossoms on the enlightened pedestal,
The halo shines in all directions.
Wisdom is beyond the dharma realms,
Loving-kindness and compassion permeate all the mountains and rivers.
I have just seen the Buddha’s perfect countenance,
I respectfully offer the Buddha my whole sincere heart,
I forward wholeheartedly to praise for the Noble Triple Gem.
Diligence in the Dharma path is well cultivated.
Respectfully pay homage to the Noble Triple Gem
Shows the way of peace to living things and living beings,
has virtuous, good, and noble signs,
The Buddha’s wisdom and compassion are perfect.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Buddha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Dharma that is the bright way,
Instructs people to escape the realm of delusion,
Leads us to return to true home
In order to lead a life of awakening.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Dharma forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Sangha that is the beautiful Community in harmony
Travels on the joyful path together,
Cultivates to be freed from afflictions
In order to make life beautified.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Sangha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
We rely on the Triple Gem
on the path of Dharma learning,
know the Triple Gem of self-own mind,
vow to practice the Dharma diligently
in order to illuminate the heart of the Noble Triple Gem.
ANATTALAKKHANA SUTTA
Discourse on the Characteristic of Non-Self
Thus have I heard. On one occasion the Buddha was staying near Bārānasī in the Deer Park at Isīpatana. There the Buddha taught the group of the five bhikkhu disciples how to contemplate and practice non-self as follows.
The body is not me.
Oh dear disciples, the human body is inherently non-self. For if the body were self, it would not lead to illness and suffering, so you cannot compel form of this body: “May my body be like this; may my body not be like that.” But in reality, because the body is non-self, it leads to aging, change, weakness, illness, suffering, and death. Therefore, your desire for this body to be “self” cannot be fulfilled.
Feeling is not me.
Oh dear disciple, human feeling is inherent non-self. For if feeling were self, it would not lead to illness and suffering, so you cannot compel feeling: “May my feeling be like this; may my feeling not be like that.” But in reality, because feeling is non-self, it is subject to impermanence and suffering. Therefore, your desire for feeling to be “self” cannot be fulfilled.
Perception is not me.
Oh dear disciple, human perception is inherently non-self. For if perception were self, it would not lead to illness and suffering, so you cannot compel perception: “May my perception be like this; may my perception not be like that.” But in reality, because perception is non-self, it is subject to impermanence and suffering. Therefore, your desire for perception to be “self” cannot be fulfilled.
Mental formations are not me.
Oh dear disciple, mental formations are inherently non-self. For if mental formations were self, they would not lead to affliction, so you cannot compel mental formations: “May my mental formations be like this; may my mental formations not be like that.” But in reality, because mental formations are non-self, they are subject to impermanence and suffering. Therefore, your desire for mental formations to be “self” cannot be fulfilled.
Consciousness is not me.
Oh dear disciple, human consciousness is inherently non-self. For if consciousness were self, it would not lead to affliction, so you cannot compel consciousness: “May my consciousness be like this; may my consciousness not be like that.” But in reality, because consciousness is non-self, it is subject to impermanence and suffering. Therefore, your desire for consciousness to be “self” cannot be fulfilled.
Non-self in impermanence and affliction
Oh dear disciples, are the five aggregates in a human being, including body, feeling, perception, mental formations, and consciousness, permanent or impermanent?
– Venerable Sir, they are impermanent.
– Oh dear disciples, is what is impermanent suffering or happiness?
– Venerable Buddha, they are suffering.
– Oh dear disciples, according to the natural law, the five aggregates of this body are inherently impermanent and subject to change. Because of attachment to the body and mind, you think they are permanent, so you will suffer. To overcome attachment to these five aggregates, you should practice and contemplate them as follows:
“This body is not me, not mine, and not myself.
This feeling is not me, not mine, and not myself.
This perception is not me, not mine, and not myself.
These mental formations are not me, not mine, and not myself.
This consciousness is not me, not mine, and not myself.” O
Non-self and freedom
Oh dear disciples, these five aggregates, whether they exist in the past, present, or future, internal or external, large or small, beautiful or ugly, far or near, with correct wisdom, you should observe like this: “All these are not me, not mine, and not myself.”
Abandon attachment to be liberated from suffering and affliction
Oh dear disciples, when you clearly realize that the five aggregates are impermanent, suffering, and non-self, you no longer cling to the body, feeling, perception, mental formations, and consciousness. The afflictions of greed, anger, delusion, etc., within you will be recognized and transformed. You will forward your mind to liberation and clearly know that: “Rebirth is ended, the spiritual journey has been completed, the holy life has been accomplished. What had to be done has been done, there is no more coming back to this life.” After having heard the Buddha teach this Sutta, the group of the five Bhikkhu disciples of the Buddha no longer clung to and ended their afflictions and defilements. They are extremely happy and have absolute confidence in the Buddha’s teachings to benefit themselves and other people right here and right now in the present life.
Namo the Original Master Sakyamuni Buddhaya.
(3 times) O
Express diligent vows and pay thankful respects to the Triple Gem
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the Buddha. Namo Buddhaya. (Bell, one prostration)
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the right Dharma. Namo Dharmaya. (Bell, one prostration)
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the Sangha. Namo Sanghaya. (Bell, one prostration)
May we be well,
May we be happy
May we be healthy
May we be peaceful
May we be free from suffering, greed, anger, delusion, hatred, violence, ignorance, etc.
May the Buddha and Bodhisattvas bless and protect all anytime and anywhere.
Bodhi, the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha turns noble and stately.
According to the place where I dwell strongly in Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma understanding, and Dharma joy, I feel forever happy and peaceful. (Bell)
Sharing the merit
Reciting the Sutras, practicing the way of awareness gives rise to benefits without limit. We vow to share the fruits with all beings. We vow to offer tribute to parents, teachers, friends, and numerous beings who give guidance and support along the path.
Sadhu, lành thay, well-done, and excellence.
Namo Buddhaya. Namo Dharmaya. Namo Sanghaya.
(Bell, Bell, Bell)
Respectfully pay homage to the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha, the path of practicing peace, joy, happiness, understanding, and love for the many right here in the present life. Namo Dharmaya.
Respectfully pay homage to the harmonious and peaceful Sangha of the Buddha, the Community of cultivated people who vow to live their lives of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding to benefit oneself and other people right here and right now in the present life. Namo Sanghaya.
As bright as the northern star,
Let us come back and take refuge in
the Teacher of gods and human beings.
The precious lotus blossoms on the enlightened pedestal,
The halo shines in all directions.
Wisdom is beyond the dharma realms,
Loving-kindness and compassion permeate all the mountains and rivers.
I have just seen the Buddha’s perfect countenance,
I respectfully offer the Buddha my whole sincere heart,
I forward wholeheartedly to praise for the Noble Triple Gem.
Diligence in the Dharma path is well cultivated.
Respectfully pay homage to the Noble Triple Gem
Shows the way of peace to living things and living beings,
has virtuous, good, and noble signs,
The Buddha’s wisdom and compassion are perfect.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Buddha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Dharma that is the bright way,
Instructs people to escape the realm of delusion,
Leads us to return to true home
In order to lead a life of awakening.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Dharma forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Sangha that is the beautiful Community in harmony
Travels on the joyful path together,
Cultivates to be freed from afflictions
In order to make life beautified.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Sangha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
We rely on the Triple Gem
on the path of Dharma learning,
know the Triple Gem of self-own mind,
vow to practice the Dharma diligently
in order to illuminate the heart of the Noble Triple Gem.
Kalamas, when the wholesome things are well practiced, greed, anger, and delusion are purified and transformed, Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma understanding, Dharma joy, and Dharma happiness have the ability to permeate and make your bodies and minds cool and gentle.
When a holy one dwells stably in right mindfulness and awareness, his loving-kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity have the ability to shine anytime and anywhere, embrace all sentient beings and insentient beings.
When animosity, bad karma, unhappiness, affliction, and suffering in his mind are ended, right in the present life, he lives very peacefully, and up to when passing away, he will be born in a peaceful realm.
Kalamas, when those who say, think, and do an issue, you should not hurry to believe in it, but you should observe, think, and contemplate whether what they say, think, and do go together, fit together, are consistent with cause and effect, and are beneficial for yourselves and for other people? If yes, you are determined to follow, practice, nourish, and develop them. If not, you should strongly give them up.
Kalamas, the ten right confidences and the wholesome things were taught above by the Tathagata. You should remember and practice them well. Out of peacefulness for the many, out of happiness for the many, you should diligently study, practice, and apply the Buddha Dharma in your daily lives to bring the right and stable confidences for yourselves and for other people right here and right now in the present life.
After having heard the Buddha teaching, analyzing, and explaining the right confidences clearly, the Kalamas were extremely happy to respectfully pay homage to the Buddha, and spoke out the meaningful, praiseful, reverential, and metaphorical words as follows:
“How wonderful it is, respectfully dear the World-Honored One! How marvelous it is, respectfully dear the Exalted One! The Dharma skillfully proclaimed by the Buddha himself is very practical, present, specific, and clear, has been penetrated deeply into our hearts, made our minds softer, gentler, and better. The Buddha Dharma has opened our minds suddenly brighten up, as a person who erects upright what is fallen down turns face upward what is overturned, opens out what is closed, reveals what is hidden, shows the way to those who are lost, carries light into the darkness so that those who have eyes can see visible objects in detail. As a person who goes in the dark night meets light.
Like a blind person, whose eyes get brightened. By many skillful methods of teaching, the World-Honored One has helped us to see everything thoroughly and clearly like daylight.
May the World-Honored One regard and accept us as lay devotees. From now until our whole lives, we are determined to take refuge in the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha, and we are committed to practicing the five Ethical Trainings fully:
1. Respecting lives, developing loving kindness and compassion, protecting natural environment, and nourishing inner peace by being aware not to kill living beings.
2. Letting go of stingy and greedy mind, expressing the mind of almsgivings, making offerings to, and protecting the Triple Gem by being aware not to take what is not given.
3. Building happiness for family, living faithfully with a legal spouse by being aware not to do sexual misconduct, adultery, and not to violate kids’ sexuality.
4. Saying the true, harmonious, and loving speech, bringing the mutual trust and prestige for the many by being aware not to tell lies.
5. Protecting vigorous health, lucid mind, bringing peacefulness and happiness for families, schools, and society by being aware not to take alcohols, drugs, toxins, including smoking, gambling, and playing violent video games online.”
When being aware to keep far away from these toxins, Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma understanding, Dharma joy, and Dharma happiness have the ability to permeate and make our bodies and minds cool and gentle.”
When officially becoming the well-trained lay disciples of the Buddha, the Kalamas were extremely happy to hold the stable and right confidences in deeply taking refuge in the Triple Gem, applying, and cultivating the Buddha Dharma in their daily lives to bring peace, joy, and happiness to living beings and living beings all over the planet.
(Bell, 3 times).
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the right Dharma. Namo Dharmaya. (Bell, one prostration)
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the Sangha. Namo Sanghaya. (Bell, one prostration)
May we be well,
May we be happy
May we be healthy
May we be peaceful
May we be free from suffering, greed, anger, delusion, hatred, violence, ignorance, etc.
May the Buddha and Bodhisattvas bless and protect all anytime and anywhere.
Bodhi, the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha turns noble and stately. According to the place where I dwell strongly in Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma understanding, and Dharma joy, I feel forever happy and peaceful. (Bell)
Namo Buddhaya. Namo Dharmaya. Namo Sanghaya.
(Bell, Bell, Bell)
(Bell, 3 times)
Respectfully pay homage to the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha, the path of practicing peace, joy, happiness, understanding, and love for the many right here in the present life. Namo Dharmaya.
Respectfully pay homage to the harmonious and peaceful Sangha of the Buddha, the Community of cultivated people who vow to live their lives of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding to benefit oneself and other people right here and right now in the present life. Namo Sanghaya.(Bell)
As bright as the northern star,
Let us come back and take refuge in
the Teacher of gods and human beings.
The precious lotus blossoms on the enlightened pedestal,
The halo shines in all directions.
Wisdom is beyond the dharma realms,
Loving-kindness and compassion permeate all the mountains and rivers.
I have just seen the Buddha’s perfect countenance,
I respectfully offer the Buddha my whole sincere heart,
I forward wholeheartedly to praise for the Noble Triple Gem.
Diligence in the Dharma path is well cultivated.
Respectfully pay homage to the Noble Triple Gem
Shows the way of peace to living things and living beings,
has virtuous, good, and noble signs,
The Buddha’s wisdom and compassion are perfect.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Buddha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Dharma that is the bright way,
Instructs people to escape the realm of delusion,
Leads us to return to true home
In order to lead a life of awakening.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Dharma forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Sangha that is the beautiful Community in harmony
Travels on the joyful path together,
Cultivates to be freed from afflictions
In order to make life beautified.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Sangha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
We rely on the Triple Gem
on the path of Dharma learning,
know the Triple Gem of self-own mind,
vow to practice the Dharma diligently
in order to illuminate the heart of the Noble Triple Gem.
Now we have a chance
to see, study, and to practice,
we vow to realize its true meaning.
(Bell, 3 times)
I. Children’s duties
The prostration to the eastern direction in accordance with the Buddha’s teachings means children have the filial duties to support their parents and the parents have the responsibilities to bring up and educate their children to become talented and virtuous people. (Bell)
III. Wife’s duties
The prostration to the western direction in accordance with the Buddha’s teachings means the husband and wife who live faithfully know to make concessions, and have each other’s confidence to build happiness and warmness for their family. (Bell)
V. The Students’ duties
The prostration to the southern direction in accordance with the Buddha’s teachings means both teachers and students are virtuous and exemplary people knowing to transmit, connect, and apply Dharma knowledge as well as secular knowledge into the daily life to benefit the many right in the present life. (Bell)
VII. Your duties to relatives
The prostration to the northern direction in accordance with the Buddha’s teachings means expressing the tolerant, close, lovely, and understanding heart with your relatives and friends. (Bell)
IX Lay devotees’ duties
The prostration to the Zenith in accordance with the Buddha’s teachings means both lay devotees and monastics are determined to learn, understand, practice, and apply the Buddha Dharma into the daily life to bring the flowers and fruits of peacefulness and happiness for the many right here in the present life. The Dharma protection and the Dharma propagation between lay devotees and monastics connect together very closely. (Bell)
XI. Employees’ duties
The Prostration to the Nadir in accordance with the Buddha’s teachings means managers and employees always have mutual duties and responsibilities for both material and spirituality to develop their company well. (Bell)
The Six Directions were taught above, the Buddha thoughtfully advised the young man Thiện Sinh the essential things through the summarized versa as follows:
Parents are the East
Teachers are the South
Wife and husband are the West
Relatives are the North
Employees are the Nadir
Monastics are the Zenith
Exemplary practitioners
Pay prostration to those directions.
When living in happiness
When passing away in peacefulness
Wise people cultivating so
Live for themselves and for other people
Always bring benefits
For all people in the world.
On the way of Dharma cultivation,
Relying on wholesome friends
Learning and following virtuous people
Bringing benefits for living beings.
Living in the world,
We know to do good,
Advise people to do good,
Peace always increases.
True Buddhist people
do something wholesome,
think about something wholesome,
say something wholesome,
their bodies and minds are regularly at peace. (Bell)
Practitioners go into life
As flowers blossom everywhere
Solemnly and freely
To make life be joyful and peaceful.
As bees going to seek flowers
Cling to the flowers to suck the nectar
Finish sucking it and flying away,
but the flower remains undamaged.
Diligently protecting the Dharma
Diligently supporting the Sangha
Making offerings to the Worthy One
being the field of the supreme virtue.
The above-mentioned things
Practitioners always accomplish so,
their merit and virtue get bigger and bigger
as river water flows down into the ocean. (Bell)
The six directions above taught by the Buddha are the six ethical and educational relationships interconnecting together very closely between families, schools, and societies, containing the values of humanities, engaged life, cause, effect, duties, and responsibilities so deeply, and helping everyone be aware to live in peace and happiness for oneself and for other people right in the present life. The Buddha’s teachings have a lot of practical and surpassing meaning beyond space and time.
After having listened to the Buddha’s teachings, the young man Thiện Sinh was extremely happy to respectfully pay homage to the Buddha, and spoke out the meaningful, praiseful, reverential, and metaphorical words as follows:
“How wonderful it is, respectfully dear the World-Honored One! How marvelous it is, respectfully dear the Exalted One! The Dharma skillfully proclaimed by the Buddha himself is very practical, present, specific, and clear, has penetrated deeply into my heart, makes my mind softer, gentler, and better. The Buddha Dharma has opened my mind suddenly brighten up, as a person who erects upright what is fallen down turns face upward what is overturned, opens out what is closed, reveals what is hidden, shows the way to those who are lost, carries light into the darkness so that those who have eyes can see visible objects in detail, as a person who goes in the dark night meets light, as a blind person, whose eyes get brightened. By many skillful methods of teaching, the World-Honored One helps me to see everything clearly like daylight.” (Bell)
May the World-Honored One regard and accept me as a lay devotee. From now until my whole life, I am determined to take refuge in the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha, and committed to cultivating the five Ethical Trainings fully:
1. Respecting lives, developing loving-kindness and compassion, protecting the natural environment, and nourishing inner peace by being aware not to kill living beings, 2. Letting go of the stingy and greedy mind, expressing the mind of almsgivings, making offerings to, and protecting the Triple Gem by being aware not to take what is not given, 3. Building happiness for family, living faithfully with a legal spouse by being aware not to do sexual misconduct, adultery, and not to violate kids’ sexuality, 4. Saying the true, harmonious, and loving speech, bringing mutual trust and prestige by being aware not to tell lies. 5. Protecting vigorous health, lucid mind, bringing peacefulness and happiness for families, schools, and societies by being aware not to take alcohols, drugs, including smoking, gambling, and playing violent video games online. (Bell)
When aware to keep far away from these toxins, Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma joy, and Dharma happiness have the ability to permeate and cool my body and mind. When officially becoming the well-trained devotee of the Buddha, the young man Thiện Sinh was extremely happy to hold stable and deep confidence in taking refuge in the Triple Gem, applying, and cultivating the Buddha Dharma in the daily life to bring benefits and happiness to living things and living beings all over the planet.
(Bell, 3 times)
Express diligent vows and pay thankful respects to the Triple Gem
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the right Dharma. Namo Dharmaya. (Bell, one prostration)
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the Sangha. Namo Sanghaya.(Bell, one prostration)
May we be well,
May we be happy
May we be peaceful
May we be healthy
May we be free from suffering, greed, anger, delusion, hatred, violence, ignorance, wrong view, etc.
May the Buddha and Bodhisattvas bless and protect all anytime and anywhere.
Bodhi, the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha turns noble and stately.
According to the place where I dwell strongly in Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma understanding, and Dharma joy, I feel forever happy and peaceful. (Bell)
Be direct toward all living things and living beings
We and all human beings
Can realize the Buddha’s way together.
Namo Buddhaya. Namo Dharmaya. Namo Sanghaya.
(Bell, bell, bell)
CHANTING FIFTEEN
Namo Tassa Bhagavato Arahato Samma SamBuddhassa
(Bell, 3 times)
Respectfully pay homage to the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha, the path of practicing peace, joy, happiness, understanding, and love for the many right here in the present life. Namo Dharmaya.
Respectfully pay homage to the harmonious and peaceful Sangha of the Buddha, the Community of cultivated people who vow to live their lives of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding to benefit oneself and other people right here and right now in the present life. Namo Sanghaya. (Bell)
As bright as the northern star,
Let us come back and take refuge in
the Teacher of gods and human beings.
The precious lotus blossoms on the enlightened pedestal,
The halo shines in all directions.
Wisdom is beyond the dharma realms,
Loving-kindness and compassion permeate all the mountains and rivers.
I have just seen the Buddha’s perfect countenance,
I respectfully offer the Buddha my whole sincere heart,
I forward wholeheartedly to praise for the Noble Triple Gem.
Diligence in the Dharma path is well cultivated.
(Bell, 3 times)
Respectfully pay homage to the Noble Triple Gem
Shows the way of peace to living things and living beings,
has virtuous, good, and noble signs,
The Buddha’s wisdom and compassion are perfect.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Buddha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Dharma that is the bright way,
Instructs people to escape the realm of delusion,
Leads us to return to true home
In order to lead a life of awakening.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Dharma forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Sangha that is the beautiful Community in harmony
Travels on the joyful path together,
Cultivates to be freed from afflictions
In order to make life beautified.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Sangha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
We rely on the Triple Gem
on the path of Dharma learning,
know the Triple Gem of self-own mind,
vow to practice the Dharma diligently
in order to illuminate the heart of the Noble Triple Gem.
Now we have a chance
to see, study, and to practice,
we vow to realize its true meaning.
(Bell, 3 times)
METTA SUTTA
By one who is skilled in goodness,
And who knows the path of peace:
Let them be able and upright,
Straightforward and gentle in speech.
Humble and not conceited,
Contented and easily satisfied.
Unburdened with duties and frugal in their ways.
Peaceful and calm, wise and skillful,
Not proud and demanding in nature.
Let them not do the slightest thing
That the wise would later reprove.
Wishing: In gladness and in safety,
May all beings be at ease.
Whatever living beings there may be;
Whether they are weak or strong, omitting none,
The great or the mighty, medium, short or small,
The seen and the unseen,
Those living near and far away,
Those born and to-be-born,
May all beings be at ease!
Let none deceive another,
Or despise any being in any state.
Let none through anger or ill-will
Wish harm upon another.
Even as a mother protects with her life
Her child, her only child,
So with a boundless heart
Should one cherish all living beings:
Radiating kindness over the entire world:
Spreading upwards to the skies,
And downwards to the depths;
Outwards and unbounded,
Freed from hatred and ill-will.
Whether standing or walking, seated or lying down
Free from drowsiness,
One should sustain this recollection.
This is said to be the sublime abiding.
By not holding to fixed views, practitioners do not fall into wrong
view, wrong thought, wrong speech, wrong action, wrong livelihood, wrong effort, wrong mindfulness, wrong concentration,
The pure-hearted one, having clarity of vision,
Being freed from all sense desires,
Is not born again into this world. (Bell)
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the right Dharma. Namo Dharmaya.(Bell, one prostration)
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the Sangha. Namo Sanghaya.(Bell, one prostration)
May we be happy
May we be peaceful
May we be healthy
May we be free from suffering, greed, anger, delusion, hatred, violence, ignorance, wrong view, etc.
May the Buddha and Bodhisattvas bless and protect all anytime and anywhere.
Bodhi, the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha turns noble and stately.
According to the place where I dwell strongly in Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma understanding, and Dharma joy, I feel forever happy and peaceful. (Bell)
Be direct toward all living things, and living beings
We and all human beings
Can realize the Buddha’s way together.
Namo Buddhaya. Namo Dharmaya. Namo Sanghaya.
(Bell, bell, bell).
CHANTING SIXTEEN
(Bell, 3 times)
Respectfully pay homage to the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha, the path of practicing peace, joy, happiness, understanding, and love for the many right here in the present life. Namo Dharmaya.
Respectfully pay homage to the harmonious and peaceful Sangha of the Buddha, the Community of cultivated people who vow to live their lives of virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding to benefit oneself and other people right here and right now in the present life. Namo Sanghaya. (Bell)
As bright as the northern star,
Let us come back and take refuge in
the Teacher of gods and human beings.
The precious lotus blossoms on the enlightened pedestal,
The halo shines in all directions.
Wisdom is beyond the dharma realms,
Loving-kindness and compassion permeate all the mountains and rivers.
I have just seen the Buddha’s perfect countenance,
I respectfully offer the Buddha my whole sincere heart,
I forward wholeheartedly to praise for the Noble Triple Gem.
Diligence in the Dharma path is well cultivated.
(Bell, 3 times)
Respectfully pay homage to the Noble Triple Gem
Shows the way of peace to living things and living beings,
has virtuous, good, and noble signs,
The Buddha’s wisdom and compassion are perfect.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Buddha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Dharma that is the bright way,
Instructs people to escape the realm of delusion,
Leads us to return to true home
In order to lead a life of awakening.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Dharma forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
The Sangha that is the beautiful Community in harmony
Travels on the joyful path together,
Cultivates to be freed from afflictions
In order to make life beautified.
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, wholeheartedly pay homage to the Sangha forever present in the three lifetimes and ten directions. (Bell, one prostration)
We rely on the Triple Gem
on the path of Dharma learning,
know the Triple Gem of self-own mind,
vow to practice the Dharma diligently
in order to illuminate the heart of the Noble Triple Gem.
Now we have a chance
to see, study, and to practice,
we vow to realize its true meaning.
(Bell, 3 times)
DISCOURSE ON THE WHITE-CLAD DISCIPLES
Thus have I heard. On the occasion the World-Honored One was staying at the Jetavana Monastery wholeheartedly offered by Suddata Anathapindika and prince Jeta. One beautiful day, this businessman along with five hundred devotees paid a visit and homage to Venerable Sariputta and other monastics. At that time, Venerable Sariputta used many skillful teachings to preach the Dharma to them, bring many joyful feelings of the Dharma practice, and help them arouse their confident hearts of thirsting for the Triple Gem.
Then, Venerable Sariputta led them all to a hut of the Buddha, prostrated at his feet, and sat down respectfully to one side in mindfulness and awakening postures. The World-Honored One considerately taught them the key things that devotees[1] should be diligent to practice the Buddha Dharma daily to bring peacefulness and happiness to themselves and to others right in the present life.
The key things, namely, are the five ethical trainings and four noble contemplative minds. If devotees lead their devotional and exalted lives, and regularly practice them, right in the present life, they can obtain perfect peacefulness and happiness, contribute to bringing authentic peace to the many all over the planet. Coming at the time of death, they certainly know that they will not fall into the evil realms of hells, hungry ghosts, and animals. Upon understanding and practicing so, devotees have the ability to cultivate, transform their bodies and minds, attain the stream of holy fruition right in life, and have no fear of descending into dark ways.
The first ethical trainings: Devotees who are determined to keep far away from all forms of killing living beings, including creatures. Be aware to nurture and arouse our loving-kindness and compassion hearts by protecting our and others’ lives. Not killing ourselves, not killing living beings by ourselves, not telling others to kill living beings, not inciting others to kill living beings, and not seeing others killing sentient beings, we rejoice to follow them. Aware to protect the natural environment, give up weapons and violence, practice loving-kindness and compassion, transform anger and hatred, know to repent, correct, and be ashamed of wrongdoings. Thanks to practicing so, devotees have the ability to eradicate the roots of the intention of killing, lead their lives of peacefulness and happiness right in the world. O
The second ethical trainings: Devotees who are determined to keep far away from all forms of stealing, not to take what is not given, respect the possessions of others, cherish almsgiving, help people go beyond needy circumstances, find joy before almsgiving, during almsgiving, and after almsgiving; almsgiving without regretting and almsgiving without expecting anything in return. Thanks to practicing so, devotees have the ability to transform and let go of their greedy and stingy hearts, lead their lives of integrity and altruism. O
The third ethical trainings: Devotees who are determined to keep far away from sexual misconduct and adultery, live faithfully with a legal spouse, stay away from kids’ sexuality, spend an appropriate time looking after descendants, do not allow them to play violent games, limit them to play online electronic games, allow them to school, spend time helping them do homework, and teach understanding and love to them. Thanks to practicing so, devotees have the ability to build happiness for their families and contribute to bringing peacefulness to schools and to societies. O
The fourth ethical trainings: Devotees who are determined to keep far away from telling lies – only tell the truth, do not say anything deceitful and false – only say reliable and confident words, do not say anything separate and disharmonious – only say words of construction and suggestions, do not say anything rude and evil – only say polite and elegant words, do not say anything useless and meaningless– only say useful and meaningful words, do not say anything despicable, contemptuous, and reproachful – only say commendable, appreciative, and solidarity words, do not say anything critical, hasty, stressful, and angry – only say loving, affable, pleasant, harmonious, reconciling words. Thanks to practicing so, devotees are worthy to get confident, have the ability to bring prestige and peace to many people. O
The fifth ethical trainings: Devotees are determined to keep far away from alcohol, intoxicants, smoking, and gambling, especially narcotics, to give up the depraved and violent enjoyment habits, such as movies, newspapers, radio, television, not to buy, sell, product, and stockpile weapons and poisons, not to plant cannabis and opium, not to broker and trade in people and rare wildlife.
Be aware that the consumption and use of four kinds of daily nutriments comprise edible foods, feeling foods, volitional foods, and conscious foods in mindfulness and awareness, devotees can abandon and let go of those toxins. Thanks to understanding and practicing so, they can live their healthy and lucid lives and contribute to bringing true peacefulness and happiness to themselves and to others right in the present life. O
The five ethical trainings have been taught by the Tathagata, next are the four noble contemplative minds.
The first noble contemplative mind: Devotees should contemplate that “The World-Honored Buddha; the Teacher is our peaceful, noble, and spiritual Leader; the Teacher is the most worthy to be made offerings to; the Teacher is fully endowed with loving-kindness, compassion, wisdom, and virtue perfectly; the Teacher has skillfully crossed over to the shore of liberation, peace, joy, and happiness completely; the Teacher knows the world thoroughly; the Teacher has the ability to train and teach living things and living beings; the Teacher of both gods and human beings; the Teacher is the fully awakened and enlightened One, the Teacher deserves to be best honored and respected in the world.” O
The second noble contemplative mind: Devotees should contemplate that: “The Dharma of the World-Honored One that has been well proclaimed by the Buddha himself is very practical in the present, has value beyond time, has the ability to transform one’s body and mind, has the ability to extinguish defilements of greed, anger, delusion, arrogance, doubt, wrong view, etc. Taking refuge in the Dharma, wise people who are capable of self-cultivation master the right Dharma, come and see, come and hear, come and learn, come and understand, come and practice, come and enjoy the flowers and fruits of peacefulness and happiness right here and right now in the present life.” O
The third noble contemplative mind: Devotees should contemplate that: “The Sangha of the World-Honored One is the Community traveling on the really good, true, honest, beautiful, and appropriate path; the Community following the Buddha Dharma practices the Buddha Dharma and lives correctly with the Buddha Dharma. In the noble Community, there are those who have attained and are attaining the first holy fruition – the stream-enterers, the second holy fruition – the once-returners, the third holy fruition – the non-returners, and the fourth holy fruition – Arahants, comprise four pairs and eight fruitions of holy people,[2] accomplish all aspects of ethics, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding. This Community, deserving to be taken refuge in, served, respected, honored, admired, and made offerings to, is the good field of merit for the world to sow and to plant.”[3] O
The fourth noble contemplative mind: Devotees should contemplate that: “The Dharma Precepts of the World-Honored One – the Disciplines (Vinaya) and right mindfulness the Sangha receiving, practicing, spreading, and observing are the perfect precepts’ (Sīla) bodies, are the never broken precepts’ bodies, are the never polluted precepts’ bodies, are the never spotted precepts bodies, are the never mingled precepts’ bodies, are the precepts’ bodies praised and admired by wise people, are the precepts’ bodies with the ability to protect freedom, are the precepts’ bodies leading us to fearlessness, are the precepts’ bodies leading us to virtue, meditation, wisdom, deliverance, and deliverance with right understanding, are the precepts’ bodies leading us to peacefulness and happiness forever.”[4] O
Dear devotees, thanks to contemplating and practicing the four noble contemplative minds entirely, you have the ability to put an end to cravings, ignorance, unhappiness, sorrow, and suffering, transform afflictions of greed, anger, delusion, etc., go beyond the three evil realms of hells, hungry ghosts, and animals, obtain happiness and great joy, build a Paradise or a Pure Land right on earth, and open up many stable and bright directions for life
After having proclaimed the five ethical trainings and four noble contemplative minds to devotees, the World-Honored One considerately summarizes a verse of easy-understanding example as follows:
You who should be bright
Know fear of the evil realms
Diligently practice the Dharma
To transform all sufferings.
Observing the Five Ethical Trainings:
Not killing living beings
Nourishing the compassion heart
Leading lives of little sickness and sorrow
Your longevity always increases.
Not taking what is not given
Letting go of your stingy hearts
Knowing to make offerings and almsgiving
Bringing benefits to yourselves and to others.
Not doing sexual misconduct and adultery
Not abusing children’s sexuality
Faithful to a spouse
Living peacefully and happily.
Not saying deceptive words
Only telling the truth
Right conviction and prestige
Are always trusted.
Determined not to use
Alcohol and drugs
Gambling and smoking
Your minds become lucid and calm.
You frequently contemplate
Virtues of the Buddha,
The Dharma and Sangha,
Ethics and meditation,
Wisdom and deliverance.
Joy in almsgiving
Joy in making offerings
Skillfully sowing and planting the field of merit
Skillfully cultivating good faculties
Diligently practicing right mindfulness
Enlightenment and happiness
Appear right in the present.
Devotees hear clearly
The Tathagata set the examples:
Observe a flock of cows
With the yellow, white ones
With the red, black ones
The brown ones with yellow spots
Or the pigeon gray color.
whether they bring any color
Or where they come from
But their true values
Depend on their transportable strength.
Those that are healthy
are well trained
Pull the carts strongly and quickly
Transport many trips
Are the useful oxen.
All over the world
Many kinds of different people
Kings or civilians
Monastics or lay followers
Females or males
The young or the old
Those who observe the precepts
Live peacefully and calmly
Become people of ethics
Become people of paragons
For oneself and for others.
Making offerings to people like this
Will obtain great virtuous blessings.
The Tathagata never discriminates
Between castes and origins
Those who lack talent, virtue
Wisdom, and cultivation
Do not enlighten anyone,
Do not make benefit for anyone.
Making offerings to those people
Without great virtuous blessings.
The Tathagata’s disciples
Always cultivate wisdom and virtue
Their hearts direct to the World-Honored One
Diligently practice the Buddha Dharma
Diligently support the Sangha
Cultivate the good faculties
Sow the field of merit
Attain Nibbana – true happiness
Right in the world.
After letting go of the physical bodies
You are born up to a peaceful realm
Continue vowing to save living beings
In the worlds of gods and human beings
practice the Dharma together
To bring benefits to themselves and to others.
After having listened to the Buddha’s teachings, Venerable Sariputta, Monastics, the businessman Anathapindika, and the five hundred devotees feel delighted and excited, understand the Buddha’s teachings thoroughly, vow to practice, and propagate the Buddha Dharma to bring benefits and happiness to living beings together. (Bell)
Namo the Original Master Sakyamuni Buddhaya. (3 times) O
Express diligent vows and pay thankful respects to the Triple Gem
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the Buddha. Namo Buddhaya. (One prostration) O
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the right Dharma. Namo Dharmaya. (One prostration) O
We, disciples of Gautama Buddha, are always aware of ourselves by day and by night, constantly practice and recollect the light of the Sangha. Namo Sanghaya. (One prostration) O
Bodhi, the wonderful Dharma of the Buddha turns noble and stately. According to the place where I dwell strongly in Dharma learning, Dharma practice, Dharma understanding, and Dharma joy, I feel forever happy and peaceful. O
SHARING THE MERIT
May the merit of cultivation today
Be direct toward all living things and living beings
We and all human beings
Can realize the Buddha’s way together.
May we be well,
May we be happy
May we be healthy
May we be peaceful
May we be free from suffering, greed, anger, delusion, hatred, violence, ignorance, etc.
May the Buddha and Bodhisattvas bless and protect all anytime and anywhere.
Sadhu, lành thay, well-done, and excellence.
Namo Buddhaya. Namo Dharmaya. Namo Sanghaya.
OOO
[1] www.accesstoinsight.org/tipitaka/an/an05/an05.179.than.html
[2] Sotāpanna means the noble person who enters the first holy stream is called the stream-entry (Sotāpatti phala), the stream-winner, or the stream-enterer (Sotāpanna). This person has attained the Path (Magga) (i) and the fruition (Phala) (ii) of Sotāpanna. Sakadāgāmī means the noble person who enters the second holy stream is called the once-returner (Sakadāgāmī). This person has attained the Path (Magga) (iii) and the fruition (Phala) (iv) of Sakadāgāmī. Anāgāmī means the noble person who enters the third holy stream is called the non-returner (Anāgāmī). This person has attained the Path (Magga) (v) and the fruition (Phala) (vi) of Anāgāmī. S. Arahanta = or P. Arahant means the noble person who enters the fourth holy stream is called the one who has deserved to be offered (1), who has killed the enemies of afflictions (2), who has broken the evil things completely (3), who has made maras of defilements terrified (4), who has ended the samsara of birth and death (5). This person has attained the Path (Magga) (vii) and the fruition (Phala) (viii) of Arahanta.
(i) and (ii) as one pair, (iii) and (iv) as one pair, (v) and (vi) as one pair, (vii) and (viii) as one pair, all consist of four pairs. Calculating from the Path (Magga) and the fruition (Phala) of (i) to the Path (Magga) and the fruition (Phala) of (viii), we totally have the four pairs and the eight fruitions of holy persons (Cattāri purisayugāni aṭṭha purisapuggalā).
[3] http://www.aimwell.org/assets/PathofPurification2011.pdf Part II, Chapter VII, pp. 215 – 218.
[4] http://www.aimwell.org/assets/PathofPurification2011.pdf Part II, Chapter VII, pp. 218-9.
