Heart Sutra (大悲心陀羅尼)

About 大悲心陀羅尼

Song · Source text translated by 慈賢

820 · about 3 min

The Great Compassion Dhāraṇī is a significant Buddhist scripture translated by Master Cixian during the Song Dynasty. This sutra originates from the esoteric Buddhist tradition and was transmitted to China by Indian masters, with Cixian rendering it into Chinese during the Northern Song period. At its core, the sutra presents the Great Compassion Mantra proclaimed by Bodhisattva Avalokiteśvara, detailing the mantra's content, merits of recitation, and ritual practices. The entire scripture emphasizes compassionate salvation and the elimination of karmic obstacles, guiding practitioners toward mental purification and the growth of wisdom through mantra recitation. In Chinese Buddhism, this sutra is regarded as an important esoteric text, with the Great Compassion Mantra serving as a central chant in daily liturgy and ceremonial activities. It has profoundly influenced various schools such as Pure Land and Chan Buddhism, standing as a key text that embodies the integration of Avalokiteśvara devotion and esoteric practices.