Ritual of Reciting the Standard Prayer

The ritual of reciting the standard prayer is a sacred practice that brings numerous benefits to those who engage in it. It is a powerful way to cleanse the body and mind and invite positive energies into our lives. In this article, we will explore the steps of this ritual and its significance.

Preparing for the Ritual

Before starting the ritual, it is important to prepare yourself properly. Begin by washing your hands, face, and mouth thoroughly. Make sure to change into clean clothes before approaching the altar.

To wash your face, recite the following chant three times: “An lam sa ha.” While washing your hands, chant “An chu ca ba du sa ha” three times. Finally, when rinsing your mouth, chant “An ham an han sa ha” three times. Remember that the effectiveness of the prayer is enhanced when performed with a clean body.

It is also important to dress appropriately when entering the temple. Do not wear dirty shoes or slippers. Ensure that your nails are cut short and clean. Tie your pants securely or fold them neatly. These simple practices show respect for the sacred space.

Lighting Incense and Offering Prayers

Light three incense sticks and offer them as a sign of reverence. Recite the following chant as you offer the incense: “Giới hương định hương dữ tuệ hương. Giải thoát giải thoát tri kiến hương Quang minh vân đài biến pháp giới Phả cúng thập phương Tam bảo tiền. Nam mô Hương Cúng Dường Bồ Tát” (repeat three times).

After placing the incense in the censer, chant “Án phạ nhật la vật” (repeat three times). Then, recite the following prayers:

• “Nam mô thập phương tận hư không giới nhất thiết chư phật” (repeat once)
• “Nam mô thập phương tận hư không nhất thiết tôn pháp” (repeat once)
• “Nam mô thập phương tận hư không giới nhất thiết hiền thánh tăng” (repeat once)

Striking the Bell

Striking the bell is an integral part of the ritual. It is believed to dispel negative energy and create a harmonious atmosphere. Chant the following verse before striking the bell: “Nguyện thử chúng sinh siêu pháp giới Thiết vi u ám tất giao văn Văn trần thanh tịnh chứng viên thông Nhất thiết chúng sinh thành chính giác.” (Strike the bell once with a long, continuous sound, three times in total)

Sitting in Meditation

Sit in the “Kim Cương tọa” posture, which has two variations: “Toàn già” and “Bán già.” In the “Toàn già” posture, cross your left leg over your right, then your right leg over your left. In the “Bán già” posture, either cross your left leg over your right or your right leg over your left.

Fold your hands in the gesture known as “tam muội.” Extend your right hand straight and place your left hand, palm facing up, under your right hand. Interlock your thumbs and press them against the lower abdomen. Maintain an upright posture with a calm and tranquil mind.

Reciting the Mantra

Recite the following mantras while in meditation:

• Tịnh Pháp giới Chân ngôn: “Án Lam” (repeat 108 times)
• Hộ Thân Chân ngôn: “Án Xỉ Lâm” (repeat 108 times)
• Lục tự Đại minh Chân ngôn: “Án, ma ni bát minh hồng” (repeat 108 times)

After chanting the mantras, bring your palms together and recite the “Cầu gia hộ” prayer: “Cúi đầu quy kính pháp viên thành Đỉnh lễ đủ bảy trăm ức Phật Con nay xưng tán Đức Chuẩn Đề. Nhờ lượng từ bi thương ủng hộ.”

Conclusion and Final Prayers

Next, recite the following prayer three times: “Nam mô thất câu chi Phật mẫu Đại Chuẩn Đề vương Bồ tát.”

Return to your seated position and recite two additional prayers:

• “Văn phát nguyện I”: This prayer requests blessings for oneself and others, wishing for good health, peace, and enlightenment.
• “Văn phát nguyện II”: This prayer seeks the support and guidance of the Three Jewels for oneself, family, and all beings, ensuring a prosperous and virtuous life.

After completing the prayers, meditate on the phrase “Lãm” and chant it repeatedly. Finally, recite “Án, Chiết lệ chủ lệ Chuẩn Đề, Sa Bà Ha, Bộ Lâm” (repeat 108 times).

Ending the Ritual

Release the hand gesture from the top of your head and recite the following chant while pressing your right hand on five areas: forehead, left shoulder, right shoulder, chest, and solar plexus.

While pressing each area, chant “Hồng, hồng, hồng, hồng, hồng” continuously. Remember that this ritual is effective for dispelling negative energy and protecting oneself from harm.

Finally, stand up and pay respect by reciting “Nam mô Thất câu chi Phật Mẫu Đại Chuẩn Đề vương Bồ Tát” three times.

Conclusion

The ritual of reciting the standard prayer is a sacred practice that brings numerous benefits to those who engage in it. By following the steps outlined above, you can cleanse your body and mind, invite positive energy, and experience the transformative power of this ritual. Embrace this practice with sincerity, and may it bring you peace, wisdom, and blessings in your life’s journey.