Master Jun Hong Lu’s
Buddhism In Plain Terms (Radio Program)
Volume 2 Chapter 24
(An Excerpt)
THE FOUR METHODS FOR EFFECTIVE RECITATIONS
Master Jun Hong Lu: In the course of practising Buddhism, 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 at a loss. 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 bestow you with a lot of blessings.
Many people always have Guan Yin Bodhisattva close to their heart, while performing their recitations. By doing so, the efficacy of their recitation will be far better than those who don’t do so.
What does it mean by ‘embracing 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 your recitation, you let the mantra dwell in your mind.
The fourth method involves understanding the ultimate reality or true nature of this world to achieve the state of ‘undisturbed one-mindedness’.
You may say, “I, <full name>, am sitting right here and am now truly performing my recitation and meditation.”
Your true understanding of the nature of this world prompts you to perform the recitation, enabling you to achieve a state of ‘undisturbed one-mindedness’. This is made possible by your awareness that all phenomena, be it good or bad, are the result of the law of causality.
These four methods of recitation are intended to help keep your mind focused during your recitation.
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