Time : Saturday 2pm-4pm
Platform : ZOOM Cloud Meeting
Topic of Discussion : An Introduction To Guan Yin Citta’s Bodhisattvas & Medicine Buddha Dharani
On 19 February 2022, Guan Yin Citta, Singapore held yet another online English Group Study to introduce the Bodhisattvas worshipped by Guan Yin Citta and the importance of reciting the Medicine Buddha Dharani.
Shakyamuni Buddha said, “Everyone possesses the Buddha-nature, the inherent quality of kindness and compassion.” It is just that the sentient beings are influenced by the five “Gunas” (wealth, lust, fame, food, and sleep).
The opening video featured Water Moon Guan Yin – one of the manifestation of Guan Yin Bodhisattva. The participants were greatly inspired by the great compassion of Water Moon Guan Yin, who vowed to deliver the souls and free sentient beings from the sea of suffering.
Guan Yin Bodhisattva, the symbol of compassion and wisdom in Buddhism, plays a critical role in Mahayana Buddhism.
Nanjing Bodhisattva’s main role, on the other hand, is to facilitate inter-religious harmony and assist many major Bodhisattvas to save sentient beings.
Unbeknown to some participants, the position of Tai Sui Bodhisattva is determined through an annual rotation among heavenly beings. His role is to manage worldly affairs such as health, marriage, career etc.
Guan Di Bodhisattva is responsible for expelling evils and demons. Behind Him are Zhou Cang Bodhisattva wielding a sword and Guan Ping Bodhisattva propping up a seal.
The second part of the session featured Medicine Buddha, a Buddha who fulfils the wishes of all beings, extricates all beings from suffering and heals their illnesses.
“A kind heart that invokes compassion, can help one to tide over all suffering and calamities in the human realm”.
By reciting the Medicine Buddha Dharani and being kind at heart, it can protect one against calamities especially from the ongoing pandemic.
In the upcoming sessions, scheduled on 5 March, we will delve deeper into the essence of cultivating meritorious blessings.
Join us in our next session
Please contact Loh SX (96978356) / Woan Yi SX (82182248) for more information
⏰ Date and time:
Saturday 5 March 2022 (2pm – 4pm)
Please click here to download the Summary Slides shared during the Group Study:
Summary Slides_An Introduction To Guan Yin Citta’s Bodhisattvas & Medicine Buddha Dharani
WHAT ARE WE LEARNING TODAY?
1. An introduction to Bodhisattvas worshipped by Guan Yin Citta Practitioners
2. How do we make our prayers to therespective Bodhisattvas?
3. Everything you need to know about the Medicine Buddha Dharani
< An introduction to Bodhisattvas worshipped by Guan Yin Citta Practitioners >
< Shakyamuni Buddha 释迦牟尼佛 >
Master Lu’s discourse on Buddha’s Renunciation Day – An Excerpt
When Prince Siddhartha Gautama was 19 years old, He was jolted out of his idleness by the “Four Signs”: he saw in succession an old man, a sick person, a corpse being carried to cremation, and a monk in meditation beneath a tree.
From this, He realised the sufferings arising from birth, old age, sickness and death.
Seeing how living beings are trapped in this vicious circle of suffering, and realising that only a fully enlightened Buddha has the wisdom and the power to help all living being, He decided to renounce his life of luxury and set on the path in search of the Truth to free humanity of suffering.
Master Jun Hong Lu’s Buddhism In Plain Terms, Volume 11, Chapter 45
Birth, old age, sickness and death are inevitable. Suffering starts at birth and it goes on to old age. The suffering from ill health is unspeakable; and death is agonizing. Nobody can escape these four types of suffering, regardless if you are a millionaire, or however great or lowly you are.
So, as Buddhists, how can we escape from these four sufferings and to be truly happy? Please remember, spiritual cultivation is to transform you to be a happy person where the radiant light of the Buddha flows right from your inherent nature.
A Visit to Guan Yin Citta Pure Land – 7 June 2020
Shakyamuni Buddha：
“Everyone possesses the Buddha-nature, which means, everyone has the inherent quality of kindness and compassion. It is just that the living beings are influenced by the matters called “Gunas” (attribute of nature). These five “gunas” are wealth, lust, fame, food, and sleep. They are the attributes that compel people to disregard their kind nature.”
Master Jun Hong Lu’s World Buddhist Fellowship Meeting
Holland, The Netherlands, 11 September 2019
A STATE-OF-THOUGHTLESSNESS
Master Jun Hong Lu: Buddha once said, “Neither suffering nor happiness is real, it is only a transient thought that we hold on to”. When there is clinging to the thought of “I am very happy now” – we shall be happy. Conversely, if we feel that we are suffering, we too, will be trapped by that thought. That is why the sutra says that we should let go and purify our thoughts as it is through this way the state-of-pure mind thrives in us.
< Water Moon Guan Yin 水月观音 >
Water Moon Guan Yin said,
“Affinity has brought me here today to deliver the souls with my compassion. Hence, I vowed to build this platform to perform forty-nine days of chanting and sprinkle willow nectar all over, so that they could be freed from the sea of suffering as soon as possible.”
< Guan Yin Bodhisattva >
Compilation of Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse | Guide to Setting up a Buddhist Altar
An introduction to Guan Yin Bodhisattva
Guan Yin Bodhisattva (Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva) is the symbol of compassion and wisdom (慈悲和智慧的象征) in Buddhism. She plays a critical role in Mahayana Buddhism and folk beliefs. The spirit of great compassion, as represented by Guan Yin Bodhisattva, sets the foundation of Mahayana Buddhism.
According to Buddhist scriptures, Guan Yin Bodhisattva is the manifestation of the “Buddha of True Dharma Light” (正法明如来). Across immeasurable lands (无量国土中), She takes the form of a Bodhisattva in search of cries of suffering and relieve sentient beings from distress (寻声救苦). There is a special affinity between Guan Yin Bodhisattva and Amitabha Buddha. She is one of the Three Saints of the Western Pure Land (西方三圣).
With great compassion, Guan Yin Bodhisattva made the vow to help all beings selflessly far and wide. If sentient beings wholeheartedly call on Guan Yin Bodhisattva whenever they encounter difficulties and sufferings, they will be saved by Her. Guan Yin Bodhisattva can manifest in various forms according to the needs of different sentient beings in order to teach the right Dharma.
Among the various Bodhisattvas in Buddhism, Guan Yin Bodhisattva is the most well-known and commonly worshipped. Guan Yin Bodhisattva is widely worshipped in many parts of China and Southeast Asia.
There’s a saying that goes, “Every family pays respects to Amitabha Buddha; every household prays to Guan Yin Bodhisattva” (家家阿弥陀，户户观世音). Mount Putuo in Zhoushan City, Zhejiang Province, China, has always been known as the Buddhist practice place (道场) of Guan Yin Bodhisattva.
Buddhism In Plain Terms Volume 2, Chapter 21 (An Excerpt)
GUAN YIN BODHISATTVA: RESPONDING TO ALL PRAYERS AND RELIEVING SENTIENT BEINGS FROM SUFFERINGS; PRAY TO GUAN YIN BODHISATTVA WHEN ENCOUNTERING DIFFICULTIES
Guan Yin Bodhisattva is the most compassionate among the Buddhas. As a representation of a compassionate saviour, Guan Yin Bodhisattva alleviates those in pain with great mercy and compassion. When you are faced with difficulties, you should first pray to Guan Yin Bodhisattva, as She will always relieve sentient beings from pain and suffering.
During the time of Shakyamuni Buddha, He told sentient beings to pray to Guan Yin Bodhisattva. He said, “Guan Yin Bodhisattva attained Buddhahood countless eons ago.”
She attained Buddhahood before Shakyamuni Buddha. She manifests the form of a Bodhisattva (仍然示现为菩萨) out of Her great compassion and readiness to save sentient beings. Among all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, Guan Yin Bodhisattva is the symbol of compassion.
The unique vows of each Bodhisattvas led them to attain Bodhisattvahood.
For example, Guan Yin Bodhisattva embodies great compassion, Manjushri Bodhisattva embodies great wisdom, Samantabhadra Bodhisattva embodies great practice, and Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva embodies great vows (大悲 – 观世音菩萨，大智 – 文殊菩萨，大行 – 普贤菩萨，大愿 – 地藏王菩萨).
As all Bodhisattvas made different vows and are unique in their own ways, you should never make comparisons among Bodhisattvas. Bear this in mind: Bodhisattvas possess complete and perfect wisdom (圆融的智慧) and the only thing that sets Them apart is Their power of vows. During His time in the human realm, Shakyamuni Buddha advised those in distress to recite the sacred name of Guan Yin Bodhisattva. We have every reason to do the same.
There are three special days that are related to Guan Yin Bodhisattva:
The Three Dharma Instruments (法器) of Guan Yin Bodhisattva
Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse – 27 March 2016 (An Excerpt)
THE DHARMA INSTRUMENTS OF GUAN YIN BODHISATTVA
1. Lotus seat (莲花座)
Guan Yin Bodhisattva has great fondness for lotus flower because it represents the Buddha, hence the Lotus Seat. Why are lotus flowers to the liking of the Bodhisattva? It is because lotus flowers remain pure and untainted despite growing in mud (入污泥而不染).
Just think about it, we encounter a lot of issues in life that bring about a multitude of worries and unhappiness. For example, we get bullied, slandered and mistreated by others, etc.
We get worried and angry easily because we are susceptible to our defiled surroundings, whereas lotus flowers are not. That is why they are well liked by Bodhisattvas and are regarded as a Dharma instrument. This explains why Bodhisattvas either sit or stand on a lotus flower.
It is said that lotus flowers can transform into a type of boundless energy and can also turn into the pure water sprinkled by a willow branch. Therefore, a lotus flower symbolises extreme kindness, cleanliness, and purity, which is why Guan Yin Bodhisattva is fond of lotus flowers so much. The Buddha names it “lotus flower(莲花)” as it contains the Buddha nature.
2. Vase (净瓶)
The vase held by Guan Yin Bodhisattva contains “glaze water”. She blesses you by pouring the “glaze water” (琉璃水) on you rather than using a willow branch to sprinkle a few drops. How merciful is Guan Yin Bodhisattva to give you blessings in this way!
3. Willow branch (杨柳枝)
In India, willows are used to relieve illnesses and pain because of their rich vitality (具有生命力). Unlike other flowers that wither away easily, willow branches are lasting even if kept at home.
Willows are strong and full of vigour; thus, they can be used to save lives. Only when a person is strong and independent can they save others. How is it possible for a weak person to extend a lifeline to others?
Willow branch symbolises the prosperity of Buddhism. The image of Guan Yin Bodhisattva holding a willow branch signifies the thriving of the Buddha’s teachings. Guan Yin Bodhisattva uses a willow branch to bless us with dew (洒甘露) and relieve us from disasters and difficulties.
Nanjing Bodhisattva
Compilation of Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse
AN INTRODUCTION TO NANJING BODHISATTVA
Nanjing Bodhisattva is a greatly merciful and greatly compassionate, altruistic, magnanimous, and an immensely righteous Bodhisattva (大慈大悲，无私坦荡，正气浩然). He has great wisdom as well as a high spiritual state and attainment. When Nanjing Bodhisattva was in the human realm, He saved many sentient beings and as a result, He received the adoration of the populace.
Historical records suggest that Nanjing Bodhisattva was able to revive the dead and stem all illnesses with a touch of His hand, and was particularly renowned in Nanjing, Jiangzhe region.
Nanjing Bodhisattva has a high prestige and status in heaven. His main role is to facilitate inter-religious harmony and assist many major Bodhisattvas, in whatever way possible, to save sentient beings.
Unable to bear witness to the suffering of sentient beings, Nanjing Bodhisattva made the great vow of ‘liberating all sentient beings from the sea of suffering (愿带众生脱离苦海)’.
He is a greatly merciful, compassionate and efficacious Bodhisattva. Should there be conflicting views with other religions, one may consider praying more often to Nanjing Bodhisattva.
Wenda20160115 01:03:50 (Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program)
NANJING BODHISATTVA MEDIATES DIFFERENT RELIGIONS; HE POSSESSES GREAT DHARMA POWER (An Excerpt)
One of our practitioners used to practise a western religion. After praying to Nanjing Bodhisattva, he became a Buddhist. He dreamt of a priest handing him over to a Bodhisattva with Nanjing Bodhisattva standing in between.
Pray to Nanjing Bodhisattva for good health
Wenda20181109 34:36 (Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program)
THOSE WITH HEALTH ISSUES MAY PRAY TO NANJING BODHISATTVA AND RECITE 108 TIMES OF THE MANTRA TO UNTIE KARMIC KNOTS DAILY
Caller: Master, it is said that those with health issues can kneel in front of Nanjing Bodhisattva and recite 108 times of the Mantra To Untie Karmic Knots (解结咒) daily. Is this applicable on a case-by-case or a general basis?
Master Jun Hong Lu: On a general basis.
Caller: How should we state our prayers?
Master Jun Hong Lu: You may state, “May Guan Yin Bodhisattva protect and bless me, <your full name>, with good health”. This prayer applies regardless of whether you are seeking general or specific blessings.
Caller: Under what circumstances do we seek blessings from Nanjing Bodhisattva?
Master Jun Hong Lu: You may pray to Nanjing Bodhisattva if you suffer from skin or bone related ailments.
Caller: Separately, in the course of a Buddhist friend’s work, he interacts with many Christian or western customers. In this regard, should he pray to Nanjing Bodhisattva in his heart beforehand in order to regulate the energy fields (调节气场)?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Yes, he should. In fact, Nanjing Bodhisattva can cure your illness with a touch of His hand.
Caller: I understand now.
Tai Sui Bodhisattva
Compilation of Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse
AN INTRODUCTION TO TAI SUI BODHISATTVA
Tai Sui Bodhisattva manages both heaven and earth. Being the most powerful deity of the year, He will be the one in command of the many deities on earth (地神). He is known as the ‘Yearly Son of Heaven’ (年中天子).
The position of Tai Sui Bodhisattva is determined through an annual rotation amongst heavenly beings. His role is to manage affairs of the human realm such as health, marriage, career, and etc.
Like an imperial chancellor (钦差大臣), Tai Sui Bodhisattva records the kind and evil deeds of each person in His effort to uphold virtue and condemn evil (惩恶扬善).
One who prays to Tai Sui Bodhisattva can gain protection and blessings, be safe and sound, and have smooth-sailing endeavours. In the year where one’s zodiac signifies bad fortune and/or corresponds with one’s birth zodiac, etc. (流年运势不好，本命年等), it is advisable to pray more often to Tai Sui Bodhisattva.
Wenda20160115 01:03:50 (Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program)
RESOLVING “CONFLICTS WITH TAI SUI BODHISATTVA” (犯太岁) (An Excerpt)
Caller: We often say, “conflicts with Tai Sui Bodhisattva” but what does this mean for us? What problems will we encounter?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Having “conflicts with Tai Sui Bodhisattva” means that the predestined karmic obstacles will increase in severity and the punishments will also be harsher (加重惩罚).
For example, if you are under Tai Sui Bodhisattva’s watch and happen to have conflicts with Tai Sui Bodhisattva, you may die from a car accident instead of suffering from minor injuries.
When you have conflicts with Tai Sui Bodhisattva, a tiny misdemeanour or a slight evil thought (做一点点坏事，动一点点坏脑) will attract the attention of Tai Sui Bodhisattva and He won’t be lenient towards you. It is like having a police car trailing behind you and it’s just a matter of time before your wrongful acts are caught. Do you understand?
Caller: Yes, I do.
Master Jun Hong Lu: If there’s no police trailing behind you, you can keep driving and be alright. Once a police car drives behind you, the police are bound to find fault with you. This will make you panicky and eventually, you will be apprehended even in the slightest bit of violation.
Buddhism Your Questions Answer | Q&A 97 Zodiac year of birth (or Ben Ming Nian)
OFFER LITTLE HOUSES TO OFFSET CLASHES WITH TAI SUI BODHISATTVA (An Excerpt)
To offset clashes with Tai Sui Bodhisattva, you can make a vow to recite the same number of Little Houses as your age. For example, if you are 48 years old, you can vow to recite at least 48 Little Houses for your karmic creditors; those who are aged 21 or below can all recite 21 Little Houses when encountering their zodiac year of birth.
Say the following prayer:
“May the Greatly Merciful and Greatly Compassionate Guan Yin Bodhisattva protect and bless me, <your full name>, and help me resolve the predestined calamities of my zodiac year of birth.”
It would be best to begin reciting and offering these Little Houses three months prior to your birthday with the last batch being burnt on your birthday.
Guan Di Bodhisattva, Zhou Cang Bodhisattva, Guan Ping Bodhisattva
Compilation of Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse
ABOUT GUAN DI BODHISATTVA, ZHOU CANG BODHISATTVA AND GUAN PING BODHISATTVA
Guan Di Bodhisattva is the symbol of loyalty and justice who upholds the right dharma. He is uprighteous and plain spoken (刚正不阿). He eliminates the wicked and evil, and subdues monsters and demons (降妖除魔). If one meets with an unfair situation or is harassed by demons, one can pray to Guan Di Bodhisattva.
Behind Guan Di Bodhisattva are Zhou Cang Bodhisattva wielding a sword and Guan Ping Bodhisattva propping up a seal. Zhou Cang Bodhisattva was a general while Guan Ping Bodhisattva was the son of Guan Di Bodhisattva during Their time in the human realm. Together, They help Guan Di Bodhisattva in upholding the right dharma (护持正法).
Wenda20160522B 24:44 (Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program)
THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF GUAN DI BODHISATTVA, GUAN PING BODHISATTVA AND ZHOU CANG BODHISATTVA (An Excerpt
Caller: Master, we pray to Guan Di Bodhisattva, Zhou Cang Bodhisattva and Guan Ping Bodhisattva. How are Their duties distributed?
Master Jun Hong Lu: You can tell from Their faces. Guan Ping Bodhisattva is in charge of notetaking – He is more like a ‘master of pen’ – more of a scholar role (文的); Zhou Cang Bodhisattva, is the ‘master of swords’ – He plays the role of a soldier (武的) who is tasked to expel the demons.
Caller: When faced with inner demons that hinder our spiritual practice (心魔、修行的魔障), would our prayers be more efficacious if we seek help from these Bodhisattvas?
Master Jun Hong Lu: They are all the same. Your prayer will also be answered if you pray to Guan Yin Bodhisattva. On the other hand, if you pray to these Bodhisattvas with a targeted prayer request, They will help expel the demons, but you run the risk of creating karmic knots with the demons.
Caller: When faced with inner demons that hinder our spiritual practice (心魔、修行的魔障), would our prayers be more efficacious if we seek help from these Bodhisattvas?
Master Jun Hong Lu: They are all the same. Your prayer will also be answered if you pray to Guan Yin Bodhisattva. On the other hand, if you pray to these Bodhisattvas with a targeted prayer request, They will help expel the demons, but you run the risk of creating karmic knots with the demons. There’s no need to create karmic knots with these demons.
If you pray to Guan Yin Bodhisattva, She will help resolve the conflicts on your behalf; if you pray to Dharma Protectors, They will expel the demons which may create karmic knots between you and the demons (打魔的话可能会结冤的).
Guan Di Bodhisattva expels evil & brings us good fortune
Wenda20120715A 13:12 (Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program)
GUAN DI BODHISATTVA’S ROLE IS TO EXPEL EVIL (An Excerpt)
All Bodhisattvas will save sentient beings that have an affinity with Them. Guan Di Bodhisattva is responsible for expelling evil (镇邪). For example, when one is occupied by evil thoughts or has demons entering their home, Guan Di Bodhisattva can help expel them. Some people mistaken Him for the Bodhisattva of Wealth.
Having said that, once the evil is expelled, your home will be filled with positive energy, and this is when good tidings (幸运) which include wealth luck, will come knocking at your door.
This explains why it is always beneficial to pray to Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.
Wenda20160124A 33:43 (Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program) | An Excerpt
GUAN DI BODHISATTVA HELPS SENTIENT BEINGS BASED ON THE PRINCIPLE OF HEAVEN (天理)
Caller: Let’s say we pray to Guan Di Bodhisattva at home, and we pray to Him for help after being bullied by others. If we have an affinity with Guan Di Bodhisattva, will He punish those bullies? If they are punished, will we create any negative karma?
Master Jun Hong Lu: No. Guan Di Bodhisattva is a Bodhisattva. He will only do what’s appropriate. Even if He has an affinity with you, He will never do anything that is against the principle of Heaven. If He decides to help you, there must be a reason for it. Do you understand?
Caller: Yes, thank you Master.
Wenda20151220B 44:33 (Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program) | An Excerpt
SHOULD WE SAY SEPARATE PRAYERS TO NANJING BODHISATTVA, TAI SUI BODHISATTVA AND GUAN DI BODHISATTVA?
< About Medicine Buddha (消灾延寿药师佛) >
Wenda20171117 37:35 (Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program) | An Excerpt
ABOUT MEDICINE BUDDHA (药师佛)
When Medicine Buddha, was a Bodhisattva, He made 12 vows to relieve the sufferings of all beings, provide them with the spiritual faculties and lead them towards liberation (愿为众生解除疾苦，使具足诸根，趋入解脱).
It is with these vows that He attained Buddhahood, residing in the Eastern Pure Land of Crystal Radiance (东方净琉璃世界), a land as solemn and blissful as the Land of Ultimate Bliss (庄严如极乐).
The Medicine Buddha always fulfills the wishes of all beings, extricates all beings from suffering and heals their illnesses.
And, hence, He is known as the Medicine Buddha who dispels calamities and lengthens life (消灾延寿药师佛).
As we are in this Age of Dharma Decline, Master Lu, out of compassion, advises that Guan Yin Citta Dharma Door practitioners may add the Medicine Buddha Dharani (Yao Shi Guan Ding Zhen Yan) to their daily recitations.
Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse | 24 Sept 2021
< What is Collective Karma? >
Buddhism In Plain Terms: Volume 1 Chapter 5 (An Excerpt)
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN COLLECTIVE AND INDIVIDUAL KARMIC RETRIBUTIONS
Collective karma – a karmic consequence that is brought about by the cumulative bad deeds of many individuals. The best example of this is the ongoing and widely discussed greenhouse effect, in which we are unable to hold a specific person accountable because we all play a part in it.
Not every victim is predestined to suffer in such disasters. In fact, many of them are predestined to have a longer lifespan and many more karmic rewards or retributions are scheduled in their lives. However, all of them have something in common; namely, they were predestined to encounter calamity at that time.
A calamity is an outbreak of a significant and concentrated karmic obstacle. If we look at it from the perspective of energy fields, what it means is that there is a higher concentration of dark energy at that particular time and place. The negative consequences brought forth by the collective negative karma come in the form of dark energy that permeates the external environment.
A natural disaster is just a state in which collective karma has matured fully and needs to break out. Usually, it presents in a relatively large and dense coverage of dark energy. If a person with a predestined calamity and high levels of dark energy were to be present at that moment in time, it would be difficult for them to escape.
However, it is possible for those with a great number of blessings or merits to survive. That is the case even if they are predestined to encounter a calamity, or they are present at the scene.
For instance, even if they have already bought their plane tickets, there will be an array of reasons preventing them from boarding the plane and thereby avoiding the disaster. Nevertheless, enduring the tragedies that feel like hell on earth is, in itself, a very painful experience that is caused by collective karma.
Master Jun Hong Lu’s Buddhism In Plain Terms | Volume 3, Chapter 20
ARE WE ABLE TO TRANSFORM THE COLLECTIVE KARMA?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Bodhisattvas are here in this human realm not to punish us, but to help relieve our sufferings and transform our state-of-mind. This is something we should understand. So how do we transform our karma?
First, we must worship the Buddhas (拜佛).
Second, we must repent, that is, to repent from the heart (从心里忏悔).
Third, there must be blessings (加持力). All of us know that ‘fix karma’ (定业) is difficult to change. To be able to do so, you need to have the power of blessings. This is a very important factor. Without a Master or the blessings of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, it is not possible for a person to alter his fixed karma.
Just like this elderly lady here, if not for her diligence in reciting the Buddhist scriptures, her life wouldn’t have prolonged to this day – she needs a ‘guarantor’ and the power of blessings.
< THE MEDICINE BUDDHA DHARANI 药师灌顶真言 >
Discourse from Master Lu | 2OR Official Blog | 24 Sept 2021
GUAN YIN CITTA DHARMA DOOR PRACTITIONERS MAY RECITE THE MEDICINE BUDDHA DHARANI (YAO SHI GUAN DING ZHEN YAN)
< Effects of the Medicine Buddha Dharani >
It is effective in protecting one against calamities and the pandemic. By reciting the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance to repent of our past mistakes, we pray to the Medicine Buddha to bless us with positive energy that resides within ourselves. With the empowerment and blessings, one is able togather an abundance of positive energy as well as the Bodhisattva’s energy to ward off negative energy and viruses from external sources.
A kind heart that invokes compassion, can help one to tide over all suffering aand calamities in the human realm (心善即慈悲心，可度过人间一切苦厄).
When you feel unwell or affected by negative energy, such as cold and flu, or you are going somewhere dangerous, you can recite the Dharani immediately.
< QUANTITY TO RECITE >
Generally speaking, you may recite the Medicine Buddha Dharani 49 – 108 times daily.
Reply from 2OR Secretariat to an enquiry on blog | 28 September 2021
THE RECITATION OF THE MEDICINE BUDDHA DHARANI WILL BE LESS EFFICACIOUS IF ONE RECITES LESS THAN MASTER’S RECOMMENDED RANGE
Question: Can we recite 21 times of the Medicine Buddha Dharani daily?
Answer: We would recommend you follow Master’s guidance on the number of recitations of the Medicine Buddha Dharani. Reciting anything less than that may not be so effective.
By 2OR Secretariat
< TIME & WEATHER FOR RECITATION >
You can recite the Dharani up to 11.30pm or 12am (midnight), at the latest.
You may also do it on cloudy or rainy days.
The Dharani may be recited in a hospital or cemetery but before you do so, you need to seek forgiveness from the Bodhisattva by saying:
“The environment is not conducive for one to perform recitation today, but my heart is connected to that of the Buddha. May Bodhisattva forgive me.”
Reply from 2OR Secretariat to an enquiry on blog | 29 September 2021
THOSE WITH WEAKER SPIRITUAL ENERGY ARE RECOMMENDED TO RECITE THE MEDICINE BUDDHA DHARANI EARLY IN THE DAY
Question: Some Buddhist friends recite the Medicine Buddha Dharani after 11pm but their minds are still swamped by distracting thoughts. They would like to know whether it is alright to recite the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance at such a late hour of the day?
Answer: If you find your recitation of this Dharani is compromised at night,
it means your spiritual energy remains lacking. In such cases, you can consider doing so earlier in the day.
By 2OR Secretariat
< IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED TO RECITE THE MEDICINE BUDDHA DHARANI FOR OTHERS >
Pregnant women and children may also recite the Dharani.
It is recommended that the reciter recites the said Dharani for themselves. Reciting for family members is NOT recommended as the reciter has to bear the heavy burden of their family members’ karma, which can be unbearable.
Reply From 2OR Secretariat To An Enquiry On Blog | Updated as of 17 October 2021
IT IS NOT ADVISABLE TO RECITE THE MEDICINE BUDDHA DHARANI FOR FAMILY MEMBERS
Question: Is it advisable to recite the Medicine Buddha Dharani for our family members? If it is alright to do so, how should we complement our recitation with the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance?
Answer: It is not recommended to recite theMedicine Buddha Dharani for family members because you may not be able to shoulder the consequence of having their karmic obstacles, for example when their health problems get transferred to you.
Birth, Ageing, Sickness and Death are the four different phases when retribution takes effect (生老病死都是四个报应期) and karmic obstacles of such nature could potentially be overbearing. This is because when our family members are afflicted by illnesses, it is due to their ‘fixed karma’.
And, this karma will take the form of collective karma when it ripens (爆发的时候是共业). At this moment, if you undertake their karmic obstacles, you will be the first to practically collapse as this is something beyond your power or capability.
However, in situations where you have no choice but to help family members to recite theMedicine Buddha Dharani, you MUST complement it with the recitation of 21 times of the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance.
Regardless of whether you have made a vow to recite a large number of the Medicine Buddha Dharani for them, it is necessary to complete the recitation of the 21 times of the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance before reciting the Medicine Buddha Dharani.
This is because family members who do not practise Buddhism are generally laden with hefty karmic obstacles.
Hence, it is inevitable that you will end up shouldering their karmic obstacles whenever you recite the Buddhist scriptures on their behalf. This underscores the importance of assessing one’s capabilities and acting accordingly (为家人念经都会背业，请量力而行).
By 2OR Secretariat
< THE PREREQUISITES FOR RECITING THE MEDICINE BUDDHA DHARANI >
Requirements for reciting the Dharani
This is a method bestowed by Guan Yin Bodhisattva upon sentient beings to help steer clear of collective karma. However, having compassion is the prerequisite for the reciter to fully receive the empowerment of energy. It is Guan Yin Bodhisattva’s compassion that allows us to be able to receive Medicine Buddha’s blessings and empowerment. Hence, we should be grateful when reciting the Dharani.
If they fail to control lustful, evil or distracting thoughts, they should recite the LIFO a few times before reciting 108 times of the sacred name of Guan Yin Bodhisattva, and state the following prayer, “May Guan Yin Bodhisattva help me, <your full name>, to get rid of defiled thoughts.” Once done, they may proceed to recite the Medicine Buddha Dharani.
Discourse from Master Lu | 2OR Official Blog | 24 Sept 2021
EVERYONE CAN RECITE THE MEDICINE BUDDHA DHARANI
Question: Can a person still recite the Medicine Buddha Dharani if one falls into the following categories? Would the quality of one’s recitation be compromised?
A: They may perform the recitation, but it may not be effective. They need to repent and stop all the inappropriate conduct.
< Testimony Sharing >
A Buddhist Practitioner’s Sharing on the Divine Power of the Medicine Buddha Dharani
< HOW DO WE START RECITING THE MEDICINE BUDDHA DHARANI? >
TYPES OF PRAYERS BEFORE RECITING THE DHARANI
1.Prayer for oneself under normal circumstances
2.Prayer to recover from an illness (化解某种疾病)
3.Prayer to eliminate greed, hatred, illusion, arrogance, suspicion and other problems (化解贪瞋痴慢疑等问题)
4.Prayer to resolve karmic obstacles when one’s age ends with the numbers 3,6,9 or in the zodiac year of birth (化解三六九劫或本命年等灾劫)
5.Prayer to remove a curse (下杠头)
Prayer for oneself under normal circumstances
Say the following prayer before reciting the LIFO and the Medicine Buddha Dharani (The prayer is to be said in one go):
“May the Greatly Merciful and the Greatly Compassionate Guan Yin Bodhisattva and Medicine Buddha bless and empower me, <your full name>, grant me good health and a strong immune system,eliminate the viruses in my body (or unhealthy cells or negative energy.)I am learning from the compassionate vows of Guan Yin Bodhisattva to transform the viruses in my body (or unhealthy cells, or negative energy).
May Medicine Buddha bless and empower me, liberate me from the karmic obstacles caused by my past acts done out of ignorance.
I, <your full name>, hereby recite the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance [number of times] to repent of the insufficient positive energy in my mind and inappropriate conduct that I have done in the past. May the Bodhisattva bless and empower me, protect me physically and mentally against any negative energy from external sources or/and infection of viruses.”
For detailed prayers, please refer to this link:
[UPDATED] Medicine Buddha Dharani (Yao Shi Guan Ding Zhen Yan)
< THE NUMBER OF RECITATIONS OF LIFO THE MEDICINE BUDDHA DHARANI >
1.When the Dharani is included in your daily recitation or when you vow to recite the Dharani fewer than 10,000 times:
One should recite the LIFO at least 7 times per day.
It is recommended that you recite the Dharani when your thoughts are pure (自身心念干净的时候念诵).
If your mind is occupied with distracting thoughts while reciting the Dharani, stop reciting for the time being. You may recite the LIFO once or a few times before resuming the Medicine Buddha Dharani recitation, failing which you will not be able to receive the complete blessings of the energy and the effect will be compromised.
Note that it’s best to say the complete prayer before reciting the LIFO (念诵前最好再将祈求词完整念诵一遍).
Note that the LIFO alongside the Medicine Buddha Dharani (no matter if it’s 7 times as mentioned above, or due to distracting thoughts) is separate from the one included in your daily recitation.
Reply From 2OR Secretariat To An Enquiry On Blog | 26 September 2021
ONE CAN RECITE MORE THAN 108 TIMES OF THE MEDICINE BUDDHA DHARANI DAILY AFTER MAKING A VOW
Question: I have made the vow to recite 5,000 times of the Medicine Buddha Dharani, is it alright to recite the Dharani an unlimited number of times per day or exceed 108 times daily?
Answer: Yes, you may.
By 2OR Secretariat
Reply From 2OR Secretariat To An Enquiry On Blog | 26 September 2021
THE NUMBER OF THE EIGHTY-EIGHT BUDDHAS GREAT REPENTANCE BEFORE MEDICINE BUDDHA DHARANI IS NOT COUNTED AS PART OF THE DAILY HOMEWORK
Question: I recite 7 times of the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance (LIFO) daily, and I intend to allocate some of these recitations to be paired with the Medicine Buddha Dharani. In this context, what should my prayer request be?
To ensure the efficacy of the recitation of the Dharani, Master has recommended pairing it with LIFO. What about cases where a vow to recite a specific number of the Dharani has not been made?
Answer: It’s alright to follow the usual prayer script for LIFO because it has nothing to do with the Medicine Buddha Dharani. If one has made a vow to recite less than 10,000 times of the Dharani, the number of LIFO to recite is dependent on one’s circumstances. If you are unable to focus due to unwholesome thoughts, you may choose to recite a few times of LIFO, which should not be counted as part of your daily homework.
By 2OR Secretariat
2. If you vow to recite the Dharani at least 10,000 times:
Making a vow to recite the Medicine Buddha Dharani 10,000 times or more requires one to recite the LIFO 21 times beforehand, otherwise the result will be unsatisfactory.
The reciter needs to repent first to eliminate his karmic obstacles. It is because a defiled mind makes it difficult for the reciter to receive the complete blessings and empowerment of the Bodhisattva’s energy. The 21 times can be done in one go and you don’t have to do it every day. Alternatively, you can break it down into smaller portions and finish over several days.
Note that the LIFO must be recited before the Medicine Buddha Dharani.
(This recitation of 21 times is not part of your daily homework. In addition, once you make a vow to recite the Dharani over 10,000 times, you are free to recite an unlimited number of times per day.)
You may make a vow to recite the said Dharani 100,000 times, but you must complete it within a specific time. Fulfil your vow as soon as possible with no delay. You can set a daily minimum number of recitation; there is no cap on this number.
For seriously-ill patients
It is recommended that seriously-ill patients make a vow to recite the Dharani at least 100,000 times.
People suffer from severe illnesses because of diminishing positive energy in their cells and the ripening of their karmic obstacles.
They need empowerment of positive energy, which means the immense blessings from the Buddha, so that their body can be filled with positive energy to ward off illnesses and calamities.
< THE NUMBER OF RECITATIONS OF LIFO AND THE MEDICINE BUDDHA DHARANI >
Extracted From The Secretariat’s Reply On The Blog Message Board | 27 September 2021
THE 21 TIMES OF THE EIGHTY-EIGHT BUDDHAS GREAT REPENTANCE (LIFO) CAN BE RECITED ON NORMAL DAYS
Question: With regards to the 21 times of LIFO which is meant to complement the Medicine Buddha Dharani, can it be recited on normal days? Can we recite this ‘vowed’ LIFO after we complete the recitation of the seven times of LIFO in our daily homework?
Answer: Yes, you may do so. It is recommended that you complete the 21 times of LIFO as soon as possible – there is no need to wait until the next “special day” to do it. After completing the recitation, you may then recite the Medicine Buddha Dharani.
Extracted From The Secretariat’s Reply On The Blog Message Board | 24 September 2021
THE RECITATION OF THE EIGHTY-EIGHT BUDDHAS GREAT REPENTANCE (LIFO) IS CAPPED AT 21 TIMES
Question: If I make a fresh vow of 10,000 times or more, do I still need to recite 21 times of LIFO before reciting the Dharani?
Answer: It is recommended that you recite a fresh batch of LIFO to match.
By 2OR Secretariat
Extracted From The Secretariat’s Reply On The Blog Message Board | 24 September 2021
RECITE THE EIGHTY-EIGHT BUDDHAS GREAT REPENTANCE (LIFO) ON THE SPOT; USING ‘SELF-CULTIVATION FORM’ IS NOT RECOMMENDED
Question: Can we fulfill the 21 times of LIFO through offering the ‘Self-Cultivation Form’?
Answer: It is necessary to recite on the spot. It is not recommended to use the ‘Self-Cultivation Form’ for this purpose.
Extracted From The Secretariat’s Reply On The Blog Message Board | 24 September 2021
ACTIVATION OF KARMIC OBSTACLES
Question: If we make a vow to recite 100,000 times of the Medicine Buddha Dharani, would it cause the activation of karmic obstacles? Should we pair it with some Little Houses?
Answer: By reciting the Medicine Buddha Dharani, we are praying for great blessings from Bodhisattva, it will not cause the activation of karmic obstacles. That said, when a person is afflicted with karmic obstacles to begin with, it has nothing to do with his prayer to Buddhas. Praying to Bodhisattvas will not lead to the ripening of one’s karmic obstacles, conversely, it has the effect of reducing them.
Question: As we have to pair it with 21 times of LIFO, and if we recite them in one go, would the recitation activate our karmic obstacles? Do we have to offer some Little Houses?
Answer: Generally, the 21 times of LIFO that complement the Medicine Buddha Dharani will not trigger an activation of one’s karmic obstacles. You may offer Little Houses in accordance with your conditions.
By 2OR Secretariat
Reply From 2OR Secretariat | 4 October 2021
Question: In this Age of Dharma Decline, Master advised us to recite a minimum of 7 times of the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance (LIFO) so that we can eliminate our karmic obstacles effectively.
In the past, it was recommended that we recite 3 to 5 times (not exceeding 7 times) as our daily homework. Now that the base is set at 7, what is the maximum amount of LIFO that we can recite as daily homework?
Also, in the past, the maximum quantity for one to recite (daily homework plus Self-Cultivation Form) was 10 times. What about now? What is the maximum quantity of LIFO that one can recite (daily homework plus Self-Cultivation Form)?
Master Lu’s latest advice:
The maximum quantity of LIFO, comprising daily homework and Self-Cultivation Form, should not exceed 21 times a day.
By 2OR Secretariat
Reply From 2OR Secretariat To An Enquiry On Blog | 24 September 2021 | (An Excerpt)
THE NUMBER OF RECITATION OF THE EIGHTY-EIGHT BUDDHAS GREAT REPENTANCE FOR SELF-CULTIVATION PURPOSES SHOULD ACCORD WITH ONE’S CIRCUMSTANCES
Question: Previously, we could recite up to 10 times of the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance (LIFO), comprising daily homework and self-cultivation purposes, on a daily basis. If we recite 7 times of LIFO for our daily homework, how many times of LIFO can we recite for self-cultivation purposes? Can it be increased too?
Answer: With regards to additional recitations for self-cultivation purposes, please adjust according to individual conditions. If the more you recite the more relaxed you feel and you do not have the feeling of having activated your karmic obstacles, you may recite more. On the other hand, if you have a feeling that your karmic obstacles have been activated, you must immediately reduce your recitation.
By 2OR Secretariat
< CONCLUSION >
Master Jun Hong Lu: It is hoped that everyone recites the Medicine Buddha Dharani more often. The more you recite, the more blessings and empowerment you will receive so you can steer clear of the collective karma in this Age of Dharma Decline. Out of Her compassion, Guan Yin Bodhisattva showers us with the dew of blessings to help the suffering humanity to ward off the collective karma.
It is because of the unwholesome thoughts that people get caught up in the collective karma. Hence, we need to change our minds to relieve ourselves of illnesses and pain, using “the mind” to cure our illness (用“心念”来治病).
Deepest gratitude to Guan Yin Bodhisattva for compassionately allowing Guan Yin Citta Dharma Door practitioners to pray to Medicine Buddha for protection against the so-called collective karma in this Age of Dharma Decline.
< The Objective of Practising Buddhism is None Other than Attaining Buddhahood >
< Buddhism in Plain Terms < 白话佛法共修分享