Toh 575The Six Syllable Spell

An Exposition of the Sutra of the Six-Syllable Mantra (Ṣaḍakṣaravidyā)

Context

The Sutra of the Six-Syllable Mantra (Ṣaḍakṣaravidyā) is recorded in the Northern Transmission canon, one of the most important collections of Mahayana Buddhist scriptures. The Kangyur contains teachings given by the Buddha concerning mantras and methods of tantric practice. This sutra emphasizes the transformative power of sixteen written characters formed into six spoken syllables, symbolizing dimensions of reality and consciousness.

According to the Northern Tibetan tradition, a mantra is not ordinary speech but the sound-expression of suchness, the nature of Dharma (dharmakāya). These six syllables are closely connected with the six realms, the six sense bases, and the six consciousnesses, fundamental factors in the Buddhist Abhidhamma system. The sutra is transmitted from Buddha Shakyamuni through wise bodhisattvas, especially Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva, who is regarded as an embodiment of boundless compassion.

Main Content

The basic six-syllable mantra is widely known as “Om Mani Padme Hum” (ॐ मणि पद्मे हूँ), although this sutra may refer to variations or deeper teachings related to the six syllables. Each syllable bears profound meaning:

Om — symbol of the three bodies of the Buddha (trikāya), representing the universe and complete awakening. Ma — eliminates anger and greed. Ni — gives rise to and nurtures the mind of the path. Pad — purifies wisdom like a lotus blooming in mud. Me — harmonizes the purity of the Buddha Dharma. Hum — protects the dharmakāya and the mind of prajñā.

The sutra teaches that reciting this mantra with one-pointed concentration is not merely a physical act, but a transformation of consciousness. With each utterance, the practitioner repeats the act of liberating all sentient beings from suffering. These six syllables connect with the six sense bases and six objects (visual forms, sounds, smells, tastes, tactile sensations, mental objects), thereby purifying all karmic defilements related to the six senses.