Significance of Sacred formula
The concept of Sacred formula encompasses a variety of recitations, chants, and prayers across different traditions, particularly in Hinduism and Buddhism. In Hinduism, Sacred formula enhances ritual effectiveness and divine connection, while in South Asia, it is associated with healing powers. Vaishnavism highlights mantras used in worship, whereas Puranic texts refer to mystical chants with spiritual significance. In Mahayana Buddhism, the Sacred formula is epitomized by the mantra "Om Mani Padme Hum," reflecting its essential role in spiritual practices and rituals.
Synonyms: Holy formula, Consecrated formula, Mantra, Incantation, Prayer, Chant, Invocation, Spell, Charm
In Dutch: Heilige formule
In Finnish: Pyhä kaava
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Sacred formula'
The Sacred formula in Buddhism, primarily embodied by the mantra "Om Mani Padme Hum," is essential in Tibetan practices, often recited by pilgrims operating prayer cylinders, symbolizing devotion and spiritual connection.
From: Karandavyuha Sutra
(1) Refers to the mantra Om Mani Padme Hum as a fundamental element of religious practices in Tibetan Buddhism.[1]
From: The gods of northern Buddhism
(1) A chant or mantra, symbolized by 'Om, mani padme, hum,' pronounced by pilgrims who whirl prayer cylinders.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Sacred formula'
In Hinduism, the Sacred formula encompasses mantras and chants that invoke divine blessings, empower rituals, and facilitate spiritual connections, significantly enhancing worship and achieving desired outcomes. They hold spiritual power and are fundamental in various religious practices.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Ritualistic chants or incantations believed to have powerful effects, particularly in healing.[3] (2) Religious or powerful incantations known to Ravana, reflecting his knowledge and abilities.[4] (3) Ritualistic chants used during the fire offering made by Sharabhanga, underscoring the importance of tradition in spiritual practices.[5] (4) The mantrams imparted by Vishvamitra to Shunashepha that are intended to deliver him from danger during the sacrifice.[6] (5) Mantras invoked by Indrajita to enhance his strength and powers.[7]
From: Agni Purana
(1) Various rituals and practices that lead to accomplishes in medicine, meditation, and mudra, as part of seeking life goals.[8] (2) A prescribed set of syllables or mantras deemed sacred, granting enjoyment and emancipation.[9] (3) Specific incantations used during the offering of oblations to the gods.[10] (4) The specific mantras or expressions recited during worship to invoke deities, particularly during the worship of Indra.[11] (5) Chants or hymns that are used to achieve specific spiritual or material goals.[12]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The formula of significant words whose meaning is important to understand the divine properties and qualities of the lord, specifically related to Vishnu.[13] (2) Prescribed chants or mantras that devotees recite during the worship of Vishnu, believed to invoke his presence.[14] (3) A specific mantra regarded as highly valuable, especially for the followers of Vishnu, and instrumental in the process of nyasa.[15] (4) The indestructible incantation given to Parashu-Rama by the brahmana-sage Kashyapa, used for worship purposes.[16] (5) A mantra used in worship, specifically the salutation ‘Om, salutation to Ganapati’.[17]
From: Linga Purana
(1) The recitation of ‘namo brahmane vamadevaya’, a mantra pivotal for the spiritual liberation of devoted individuals.[18] (2) Mantras derived from Vedic texts used in rituals for invoking divine blessings or achieving purification.[19]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) A mantra or sacred chant, specifically one that includes the name of the Lord, credited with purifying the mind and spiritual essence.[20]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) Texts or phrases recited during the rituals, intended to invoke blessings or purify various aspects of the sacrificial offerings.[21] (2) Chants and expressions used by priests and the sacrificer to invoke blessings and approval during the sacrificial process.[22] (3) A set of prescribed words used during rituals as incantations to dispel negative forces.[23] (4) The prayers recited by the sacrificer during the vrata ritual for guidance and protection.[24] (5) Specific verses or chants that are recited during the performance of rituals for various purposes.[25]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) Religious chants or verses recited during ceremonies, particularly in connection with burnt oblations and Bali-offerings.[26] (2) Powerful phrases or verses that are recited during religious ceremonies for specific outcomes.[27]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Expressions containing names of deities, ending with the syllable 'svaha,' which are prohibited in the context of the Vaishvadeva offerings.[28]
From: Khadira-grihya-sutra
(1) Sacred formulas are chants or incantations used during rituals that invoke certain effects, such as subduing a person's will.[29]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Specific chants or incantations recited during the sacrifice to invoke the deities.[30]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) The prescribed incantations spoken during the performance of the sacrifices.[31]
From: Dvisahasri of Tembesvami (Summary and Study)
(1) Mantrah is defined as a sacred formula that combines the concepts of mind and protection.[32] (2) A sacred formula that should not be instructed to women, as illustrated by the incident involving Shukracarya and Kaca.[33] (3) Sacred formulas refer to mantras or chants believed to hold spiritual power that can result in various benefits when recited.[34] (4) Religious or spiritual phrases that are woven into H.H. Tembesvami's hymns and prayers, enhancing their devotional impact.[35]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) The structured chant or prayer used in the meditation and reverence of Gayatri, embodying its attributes and invoking its protective qualities.[36]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Specific recitations or prayers used in the rituals to enhance their effectiveness and divine connection.[37]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) Chants or mantras used in worship and spiritual practices.[38]
The concept of Sacred formula in local and regional sources
The Sacred formula encompasses ritual practices and invocations attributed to Tirthaka heretics, believed to possess healing abilities and powers of control, demonstrating a significant connection to regional spiritual and healing traditions.
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) Ritual practices or invocations believed to have healing properties or powers of control, acquired by the Tirthaka heretics.[39]
The concept of Sacred formula in scientific sources
The "Sacred formula" encompasses holy mantras or phrases recited in rituals and therapeutic practices, aimed at invoking healing or protection, highlighting its significance in spiritual and wellness contexts.
From: Ancient Science of Life
(1) Mantras or phrases considered holy that are recited during rituals and therapeutic practices to invoke healing or protection.[40]