Toh 2383A Method for Cultivating the Three Beings by Means of the Venerable One Hundred Syllable Mantra
Pāli / Sanskrit:Śatākṣarabhaṭṭārakasya sattvatrayabhāvanā
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Explanation of the Scripture: A Method for Cultivating the Three Beings by Means of the One Hundred Syllable Mantra
Context
This scripture belongs to Vajrayana Tantra, recorded in the Kangyur, the scriptures traditionally regarded as direct teachings of the Buddha compiled by Tibetan meditation masters. This is a distinctive practice in the tantric tradition, centered on the use of the Śatākṣara-bhaṭṭāraka mantra, the Venerable Dharma King of One Hundred Syllables.
This mantra, regarded as the most refined embodiment of the bodhisattva Avalokiteśvara or the bodhisattva Samantabhadra depending on the particular tradition, is the golden key that opens the wish-fulfilling mind of all buddhas. The hundred syllables are not accidental, but symbolize the flowing expression of the Buddha’s dharmakaya, profound and vast beyond imagination.
The scripture teaches that this practice is not intended only for personal cultivation, but also to nurture the three beings (satva-traya): ordinary beings, bodhisattvas, and the practitioner themselves. This is a distinctive feature of Vajrayana: it does not separate personal benefit from the benefit of all sentient beings.
Main Content
This scripture presents a threefold method of cultivation (bhāvanā) that stimulates compassion and wisdom. First is the visualization (dhyāna) of the essence of the mantra, often appearing as golden light or Sanskrit letters radiating from the center of the spiritual universe.
Second is recitation (japa), repeating each syllable of the mantra with a wholly concentrated mind. This is not mechanical or automatic; rather, each recitation is an act of awareness, as the practitioner visualizes light from the mantra spreading forth, touching the hearts of all sentient beings and purifying their mental defilements.
Third is the visualization that the three beings are not separate entities, but temporary embodiments of the One Mind of the Four Vows: the mind of Buddha.
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