Why do we practise chanting?
Chanting (puja) is a melodious way of reading as one reflects upon the Buddha’s teachings. Besides aiding memorisation, chanting in a soothing tune has a calming effect on both the reciter and the listener. Chanting should be done solemnly with mindfulness and energy. Like meditation, chanting helps one to develop a focused and peaceful state of mind.
What do we chant?
We pay homage to the Triple Gem, read the Heart Sutra and recite the name of Shakyamuni Buddha. We also recite the mantra of the Compassion Bodhisattva (Guan Yin).
我们为什么念诵？
念诵是以有旋律的方式来念诵佛陀的教法。除了帮助我们加强对经文的印象与记忆外，以平静柔和的曲调念诵能帮助我们的心安定，对旁听者和念诵者都起着静心的作用。我们应该以严肃、专注的心来作念诵。念诵和静坐一样，可以加强我们的专注力与培养平静的心。
我们念诵什么呢？
除了赞诵三宝，全体师生也念《心经》，持佛陀名号及观世音菩萨心咒。