mantra

(noun)

A phrase repeated to assist concentration during meditation.

Related Terms

Examples of mantra in the following topics:

  • Vedic and Upanishadic Periods

    • The Mantra language texts: This period includes both the mantra and prose language of the Atharvaveda (Paippalada and Shaunakiya), the Rigveda Khilani, the Samaveda Samhita, and the mantras of the Yajurveda.
    • The Samhita prose texts: This period includes the Brahmana part ('commentary' on mantras and ritual) of the Black Yajurveda and corresponds with the painted grey-ware (PGW) culture from c. 900 BCE.

  • Offerings

    • In the Hindu Yagya tradition, offerings of ghee (clarified butter), grains, spices, and wood placed into a fire are made along with the chanting of sacred mantras .

  • Buddhist Stupas

    • The Tree of Life, a wooden pole covered with gems and mantras, is an important element of every stupa and is placed in the stupa's central channel during an initiation ceremony, where participants' most powerful wishes are stored.

  • Art of Esoteric Buddhism

    • Shingon Buddhist practice is based on various rituals, including the chanting of mantras, puja, hand gestures (mudras), and meditation through visualization of mandalas.

  • Prayers

    • Hindus chant mantras or perform yoga as a meditative practice .

  • Art of Pure Land Buddhism

    • Thus, scrolls of Amida would be hung in the room of the dying, who would be saved by chanting the Amida mantra.