Nine principles of mantra

Mantra can be explained briefly in terms of nine principles, or ‘advantages’:

1. mantra as deity
2. mantra as mandala
3. mantra as offering
4. mantra as blessing
5. mantra as accomplishment
6. mantra as enlightened activity
7. mantra as shunyata
8. mantra as purification
9. mantra as similar to a wish-fulfilling jewel

Further Reading

• A Guide to Vajrayana Practice for the Rigpa Sangha (Lodève: The Tertön Sogyal Trust, 2006), Section 2. 'Kyérim', pages 26-29 (based on teachings by Orgyen Tobgyal Rinpoche).