Method of Recitation

Recitation of the mantra. The sound of recitation shouldn’t be too fast or too slow, neither too strong nor too weak. The requirement for standard recitation is very stringent—coughing, spitting, walking, etc. are forbidden, or the count of recitation would be deducted. 

Among all the offenses, talking is the most serious. So, it is best to refrain from talking during mantra recitation.

The so-called recitation practice that we normally adopt—without visualization, talking, or eating while reciting—is highly inappropriate. At best, it can only reduce the negative karma caused by unwholesome speech.

When undertaking the regular deity practice, we must also meet certain requirements regarding the use of prayer beads or malas. 

After the malas have been blessed by the master, they should be worn all the time, either on the neck or on the wrist, not to be kept away from the warmth of the body, not to be seen or touched by people who are not tantric Buddhists, not to be left in unclean places, etc. 

There are specifications for the color and the material of the malas as well. Moreover, the malas cannot be used to count things other than the recitations of a mantra, because the malas will otherwise lose its power of blessing. 

Normally, it is best to use bodhi beads for mantra recitation. Nowadays, many people like to use counters instead. But using prayer beads is still the better choice, unless in special circumstances where it is inconvenient. 

We should not see prayer beads as just a counting device; if used properly in accordance with the Dharma, the merit related to mantra recitation can increase manyfold.

During the period of undertaking the formal yidam practice, one should not commit to doing anything else, not even things like transmitting the Dharma to benefit sentient beings, because the practice will be negatively affected. 

Naturally, the requirements are not as strict for other occasions, such as attending puja or reciting a mantra during the preliminary practice. 

While practicing mantra recitation, certain types of food should also be avoided, such as garlic, scallion, animal’s tongue, etc. 

If one adheres strictly to these requirements, a varying degree of success in achieving results can be expected after the session of meditation is over, but the actual accomplishment still depends on one’s own faculty and level of diligence.

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Aspiration For Bodhichitta
For those in whom the precious Bodhichitta has not arisen
May it arise and not decrease.
But increase further and further.

Dedication of Merit
By this merit, may we then obtain omniscience then.
Having defeated the enemies wrongdoings
May we liberate migratory from the ocean of existence.
With its stormy waves of birth, old age, sickness, and death.

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