Dechen Shak-Dagsay: Day Tomorrow
Dechen Shak-Dagsay: The Om Mani Padme Hum mantra, the Tibetans say “Om Mani Padme Hum” mantra consists of six syllables, “Om Mani Padme Hum.” And we believe that, in these six syllables, the whole of Buddhist teachings are transmitted.
So, when we chant this mantra, it takes us to the innermost source of our own love and compassion because it’s the mantra of Buddha Avalokite?vara, as you just said so beautifully.
It’s the Buddha of compassion. And this mantra evokes in us the love and compassion that we all have. And this love and compassion–we say the nature of this love and compassion that we feel is no other–no different than the love and compassion of Buddha Avalokite?vara. So, it’s a very, very powerful mantra.
And it’s the mantra that I pray the first moment I get up in the morning. The first thing that comes out of my mouth is Om Mani Padme Hum. And I pray this with a big strong wish that all beings may be free from suffering, that all beings may be blessed with happiness.
Victor Fuhrman: And just if I may ask, my understanding of the concept of this Bodhisattva. Bodhisattva is who attained enlightenment and had the right to go on without having any other obligation, and yet vowed to stay in the realm of the world, in the realm of people, until every tear was dried in every eye. Is that true?
Dechen Shak-Dagsay: That’s perfectly right. And that’s absolutely beautiful because the Bodhisattvas, they are here to help all the beings to be liberated from some sorrow.
Victor Fuhrman: Now, how would you explain to someone new on their path the importance of practicing mantra as part of daily spiritual practice?
Dechen Shak-Dagsay: A mantra is helpful in many ways. I think Buddha has said that a mantra is effective–is having a positive effect on every being, regardless of whether you believe in Buddhism, whether you are–regardless whether you have faith or not. They have a universal healing power.
