THE FOUR METHODS FOR EFFECTIVE RECITATIONS
Master Jun Hong Lu: In the course of our Buddhist practice, we are bound to deliberate over certain issues such as how we should pray to Buddhas and perform our recitations. There are times when we are lost. As a matter of fact, there are four methods for more effective recitations.
The first method is to recite continuously by setting your eyes on the Buddhist scriptures.
The second method involves an image visualisation. In this case, you gaze at either Guan Yin Bodhisattva or any Bodhisattva, while performing your recitation.
The third method involves gazing at Bodhisattvas, and at the same time, you envision yourself as a Bodhisattva out there helping others and performing the work of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. In your mind, you deliberate on how you would go about doing this noble work. For this, Bodhisattvas will shower you with a lot of blessings.
Many people always hold Guan Yin Bodhisattva close to their heart during recitation which will make their recitation far more efficacious than those who don’t do so.
What does it mean by ‘upholding the mantra’? It means, when you are reciting the Great Compassion Mantra, you tell yourself, “Today, I shall focus on reciting the Great Compassion Mantra” and during recitation, you let the mantra dwell in your mind.
The fourth method involves understanding the ultimate reality or true appearance of this world to maintain an undisturbed mind.
You may say, “I, <full name>, am sitting right here, performing my recitation and meditation with an undivided mind”. This is to say, before you start your recitation, you understand the truth of this world such that you can achieve a state of ‘one mind undisturbed’. This is made possible by your awareness that all phenomena, be it good or bad, are the result of the law of cause and effect.
These four methods of recitation are intended to help you maintain an undisturbed mind during recitation.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Buddhism In Plain Terms (Radio Program), Volume 2 Chapter 24
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