Significance of Dharani
Synonyms: Mantra, Chant, Incantation, Hymn
In Dutch: Dharani; In German: Dharani; In Finnish: Dharani; In Spanish: Dharani
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Dharani'
Dharani in Buddhism encompasses various interpretations: incantations, protective mantras, and mystical phrases. It represents wisdom, spiritual power, and the ability to retain teachings, often used in meditation and rituals. Dharani offers protection, benefits, and can lead to mental mastery and deep focus.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The text indicates that dharanis can be linked or unlinked to the mind, setting them apart from samadhis, which are exclusively associated with the mind.[1] (2) A type of sacred utterance or incantation, part of the Mahamayuri vidya, used for protective and healing purposes.[2] (3) Possessions of bodhisattvas, which denote deep concentration and focus.[3] (4) A method or practice through which the bodhisattvas harness the power to see and hear teachings from the past.[4] (5) Dharani means 'capable of holding' or 'capable of preventing,' referring to the ability to retain beneficial teachings and prevent the arising of evil actions.[5]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The concept that represents the ability to gather and hold all meanings and understandings.[6] (2) A Sanskrit term meaning 'uniting and holding', often referring to the protective mantra that embodies wisdom and realization.[7] (3) A Sanskrit term meaning 'to unite and maintain,' representing the Buddha's reward body which is perfect and embodies deep teachings.[8] (4) Meaning mantras, dharani are sacred phrases that encompass and uphold all dharmas, often employed in meditation and spiritual practice.[9]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) Dharani are magic spells. The text indicates there were dharani-possessing kings as numerous as the sands of the Ganges.[10] (2) A form of chant or mantra in Buddhism used to remember the teachings of the Buddha and aid in meditation.[11] (3) Mental and spiritual powers leading to profound focus and awareness in the practice and realization of Buddhist teachings.[12]
From: The gods of northern Buddhism
(1) Short verses or phrases that are believed to contain spiritual power and are used in meditation or rituals.[13] (2) A magical prayer or mystical syllable formation intended for various protective or beneficial purposes.[14] (3) Mystical sentences or mantras used in Buddhist practice, associated with Padmasambhava.[15]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) The absolute control over good and evil influences that leads to fearlessness.[16]
From: Lankavatara Sutra
(1) A term used to refer to the sections of the Sutra concerning the protective spells and their significance.[17]
From: Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika)
(1) Usually a magic spell or talisman; in this context, it refers to a sacred sound or formula that offers protection and support.[18]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) A dharani is a spell found in roll seven of the *Shuramgama-sutra, and the text describes the dharani using uncommon Chinese characters to transcribe the sounds of a Sanskrit dharani.[19] (2) Spells recited for specific benefits, such as healing or wealth, and are at the core of Esoteric Buddhist rituals, and recitation of these spells is often a core practice.[20] (3) This is a Sanskrit word that refers to a type of Buddhist chant or mantra, which was inscribed on stone pillars and believed to have inherent salvation powers, and its perceived power rose to the forefront in pillar making.[21] (4) These are incantations that Kukai would have read, which only require basic knowledge of the Siddham script, rather than literature, according to some interpretations.[22] (5) These are spells associated with Amoghapasha and the Eleven-Headed form of Avalokiteshvara, and the earliest translations of them are among Xuanzang's works.[23]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) A type of mantra or chant that holds significant meaning in the context of tantric practices.[24]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) A specific formula or incantation of Vijaya, obtained by Dam pa, that was used to pacify epidemics in a certain country.[25]
Hindu concept of 'Dharani'
In Hinduism, Dharani encompasses multiple meanings. It can refer to the earth itself, nurturing life and defeating evil. It also signifies a queen seeking to aid her daughter, a goddess, and phrases used in rituals for protection. Furthermore, it is the personification of Earth seeking blessings.
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Another appellation for the earth, suggesting its role in supporting and nurturing life, as symbolized by the defeat of many Asuras.[26]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) She is identified as one of the two daughters of Swadha, known for her acquaintance with theological truth and addiction to religious meditation.[27]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) It refers to the earth, which one Varaha lifted on His tusks.[28] (2) Dharani is the goddess of the earth, one of the Lord's beloved consorts, who shares in the laughter alongside the Lord when observing Shri Narada's amusing performance.[29]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) Phrases or sentences used in rituals and prayers for protection and spiritual assistance.[30]
Jain concept of 'Dharani'
In Jainism, Dharani is the name of King Rukmin's wife. She is significant as the mother of his daughter. This highlights Dharani's role in the royal family and the lineage of King Rukmin.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The wife of King Rukmin, through whom he had a daughter.[31]