The Six-Syllable Mantra (OM MANI PADME HUM) is also
known as the Six-Character Great Bright Mantra. It is the profound, wonderful,
original heart (mind) of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva (Bodhisattva He Who Regards
the Sounds of the World), and its merits and virtues are immeasurable, limitless
and inconceivable. If one were to uphold the recitation of the Six-Character
Mantra, regardless of one's whereabouts, one will be protected by all the Buddhas,
Bodhisattvas as well as gods, dragons and others of the Eightfild Division.
It is able to cut off one's ignorance and open up one's wisdom, and profound
peacefulness could be obtained. It can save and alleviate hundreds and thousands
of sufferings and difficulties.
Immeasurable aeons ago, after becoming a Buddha, Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara
was known as the Tathagata who clearly understands the true law. To accomplish
his perfection of Bodhisattvahood, He made a great compassionate vow, to universally
save and enlighten all sentient beings in the world.
Therefore, if one were to hear the name of Avalokitesvara and mindfully chant
his name (NAMO GUAN SHI YIN PU SA), all sufferings and adversities could be
alleviated. Being mindful of his name as well as his compassion and kindness,
one should bring forth the resolve with a sincere heart to worship and make
offerings; and constantly uphold the recitation of the Bodhisattva's name, in
this way unlimited offences can be eradicated and one will receive immeasurable
blessings. If one were to transfer one's merits and virtue accrued from one's
cultivation, and vow to be reborn in Amitabha's Land of Ultimate Bliss, at the
end of one's life one will be reborn according to one's vow. Henceforth, transcending
birth and death; be eternally liberated fromt the Wheel of Transmigration; forthwith
accomplish Buddhahood and immediately obtain the perfect unsurpassed Bodhi.
Whether one recites the Bodhisattva's name or the Six-Character Mantra, the
same kind of merits and virtue can be obtained.
Now, one has met this extremely difficult and rare superior cause (affinity)
to be able to hear the Bodhisattva's Six-Character Mantra, His sacred name as
well as its merits and virtues, how could one not befittingly rejoice and cherish
it. With sincerity and gratitude, one should be glad to believe and receive
it; and if one could observe and practise in accordance with the teachings,
one could personally obtain the unlimited benefits.