How should I understand reciting scriptures and mantras?

Reciting scriptures and mantras means doing your practice while learning the teachings in the texts and applying them in daily life. The number of recitations certainly reflects effort, but believing, understanding, and acting on the teachings also matter. This is what I often describe as accepting the teachings with faith and putting them into practice.

If you do not yet understand the scriptures, do not let that stop you from beginning. You can start reciting, then find explanations and gradually understand what they say. If time is limited, begin with shorter texts such as the Heart Sutra, the Scripture of Clarity and Stillness, or the Golden Light Divine Mantra. With more time, you can read about the original vows and stories of the deities and Buddhas to deepen your understanding.

Scriptures, praises, and sacred proclamations describe the character of the deities and Buddhas, the vows they made, and what they have done for living beings. Beginning with the faith you already feel close to makes this practice easier to understand. If you feel close to Guanyin Bodhisattva, for example, you can recite the Heart Sutra, the Great Compassion Mantra, or the Universal Gateway Chapter. If you worship other deities, you can study corresponding scriptures. In our practice, repeated recitation and focused reflection are a process of gradually attuning to the deities and Buddhas and receiving their blessings.

If a whole scripture feels too long, you can begin with a simple Buddha-name recitation. Repeating a short phrase can make it easier to keep the mind focused on one thing. People's circumstances differ, so guidance should give them a way to begin. You do not have to wait until you understand many teachings before being willing to practice.

I regularly recite the Great Compassion Mantra. When I am afraid, under great pressure, or feel unable to break through a difficulty, I also recite the Bodhisattva's name or the Universal Gateway Chapter, together with meditation. I first settle myself, then consider the next step. Because I already have faith in Guanyin Bodhisattva and this connection with Thousand-Armed Guanyin, these practices have helped me a great deal. The Universal Gateway Chapter has been especially helpful during certain very difficult times. An important condition here is having sufficient faith in the Bodhisattva.

When the surroundings allow it and you will not disturb others, recite aloud so your own ears can hear. In my practice experience, this helps bring the meaning and intention of the scripture into the heart. If you cannot speak loudly, recite quietly. Adapt to the situation rather than disturbing others over the volume of your voice.

Regular morning and evening practice also helps develop this faith. Because you believe, you are willing to draw close every day. Practicing each day then strengthens that faith. From the perspective of energy, I describe this as building momentum, allowing the practice gradually to become part of daily life and have a continuing influence.

What we learn needs regular use to become familiar. I studied chemical engineering and learned engineering mathematics and calculus then, but after more than twenty years without using them, I had forgotten most of it. A chef chopping vegetables once and practicing repeatedly will naturally develop different levels of skill. The same reasoning applies to scripture recitation. After understanding, continuing to act on it gradually makes it part of your own practice.

Besides reciting on your own, you can practice with others. We have recited scriptures and Buddha-names and dedicated the merit online with students and disciples. With everyone participating together and our intentions connected, I felt that strength was extraordinary. The amount recited and the arrangements belonged to that particular shared practice. When discussing group recitation, I also value helping people begin willingly and keep participating, rather than merely reaching impressive numbers.

While doing your practice, also care for everyday life. Eat and sleep well, rest when mentally tired, and maintain respect for the deities and worship. Caring for your vitality and spirit is also a foundation needed for practice.

Scripture recitation is therefore basic training, like practicing dribbling before playing basketball. Do not rush past the foundations. Gradually come to understand what you do not yet understand, and apply what you already understand. With willingness to believe and continued practice, this work can help you adjust your thinking and face situations in daily life.