Tang · Source text translated by 玄奘
670 · about 2 min
"The Five Mantras" is a collection of five Buddhist esoteric mantras translated by the eminent Tang Dynasty monk Master Xuanzang. During the Zhenguan era, Xuanzang journeyed westward in search of Buddhist teachings. Upon returning to China, he presided over a translation center, and this work represents one of his translation achievements. It includes five significant mantras, such as the "Heart Mantra of the Perfection of Wisdom," which are used for recitation and spiritual practice, serving religious functions such as dispelling calamities, invoking blessings, and purifying obstacles. This scripture reflects the translation standards of esoteric Buddhist texts during the Tang Dynasty and serves as an important document for studying the early spread of Chinese esoteric Buddhism and Xuanzang's translation endeavors. It holds a unique place in the transmission of Buddhist mantras.