In the spiritual heart of Nepal, the Bajracharya priests, custodians of Vajrayana Buddhism, commence their daily and cultural rituals with ancient mantras (मन्त्र) and stotras (स्तोत्र), imbued with profound meaning and spiritual power. These sacred chants, integral to their religious practice, are more than mere words; they are a bridge to the divine, resonating with centuries-old wisdom and spiritual insight. As they recite these mantras and stotras, the Bajracharya priests connect deeply with their faith, embodying the rich tapestry of Vajrayana Buddhism that has been a cornerstone of Nepalese culture and spirituality.
Introduction: Worshipping the Self in Mha Puja Mha Puja, in Newari म्ह: पुजा, in Sanskrit देह पुजा, a sacred ritual practiced by the Newar community in Nepal, derives its name from the Newari word Mha (म्ह:), which translates to “body”. However, in the context of Mha Puja, Mha refers to the entire self – body, … Read more
Introduction Gurumandala Puja, in Sanskrit गुरुमण्डल पूजा, in Newari गुरु मण्ड: पूजा, also called “Guru-Mandala-Arcana” (गुरु-मण्डल-आर्चन), is one of the most widespread and significant rituals in Newar Buddhism in Nepal. Although its exact origins are unclear, it has been practiced for centuries by Bajracharya priests. Bajracharya priests not only perform the puja for themselves but … Read more
The Deeper Meaning of Fire and Light In Bajracharya culture, lighting fire is much more than a simple ritual. Fire symbolizes the destruction of ignorance and the awakening of knowledge. This belief connects the act of lighting a flame to spiritual enlightenment, where the fire is seen as a guide that helps illuminate the path … Read more
Introduction In the Bajracharya tradition, the 16-step puja is a highly respected ritual that honors deities through sacred offerings and mantras. Each step is deeply meaningful, representing devotion, purity, and the connection between worshippers and the divine. This puja is performed during the Gurumandala puja, Navagraha puja, Mha puja, and many other Bajracharya rituals. This … Read more
Vajrasattva Vajrasattva is a prominent figure in Bajracharya Buddhism, revered as the embodiment of purity, purification, and spiritual transformation. Often depicted as a white, radiant being, Vajrasattva symbolizes the power to cleanse negative karma and purify the mind and heart from past mistakes. In iconography, he is shown holding a vajra (thunderbolt) in his right … Read more
Introduction In Newari Bajracharya culture, Egg Sagan (खें सगं) is a traditional ritual used to bless individuals with good luck, success, and prosperity. This unique ceremony involves offering eggs alongside other symbolic items to invoke blessings and ensure a prosperous journey ahead. The Significance of the Egg The egg is at the heart of this … Read more
What is Panchopachara Puja? Panchopachara Puja, in Sanskrit पञ्चौपचार पूजा, is a traditional Buddhist and Hindu worship ritual involving five offerings to the deity. This Puja is also performed by Bajracharyas during the worship of deities or mandalas. The word “Panchopachara” comes from “Pancha” meaning five, and “Upachara” meaning service or offering. This simple yet … Read more
Introduction: Unveiling the Essence of TriRatna Stotra TriRatna Stotra – त्रिरत्न स्तोत्र, or the Triple Gem of Buddhism, stands as a cornerstone in Buddhist practices, captivating many with its profound simplicity and depth. This chant isn’t just an homage to Lord Shakyamuni Buddha but a broader acknowledgment of the Buddha as ‘The one who knows’. … Read more
Introduction The Bajracharya Dhau Sagan (धौ सगं) Stotra holds a significant place in Bajracharya culture, where it is chanted to invoke good luck and auspiciousness. This traditional practice is often accompanied by the offering of boiled Red Rice Sina/Tika (ह्याँगु जाकि सि न:) and Yogurt/Curd (Dhau) believed to bring blessings and positive energy. Red Rice … Read more
Introduction The Daanabalena (also written as Danabalena) stotra, in Sanskrit दानबलेन स्तोत्र, holds a special place in Bajracharya Buddhism, particularly invoked during prayers to Kwapa Dya, a principal deity in Mahavihar. This stotra is chanted as a devotional act, embodying deep reverence and spiritual connection. It is believed to enhance the spiritual potency of the … Read more