[Julian Rutherford]

Hi Michal,

Others have asked this before (mainly about reciting in English). Rinpoche’s view is that that it is indeed fine to use your own language and the accumulations do count towards the total. The meaning is the most important part, however as the texts are composed by great masters, they have blessings associated with them, so it’s preferable to chant in Tibetan once you are familiar with the meaning.

[Nguyen Duc Phuong Nam]

Hi Julian,

I have a question that is kinda similar to Michal’s. In visualization of deity, for example Vajrasattva right before reciting the 100 syllabels mantra, there is an instruction that the 100 syllabels fly around the Vajrasattva. My question is: do I need to visualize the syllabels in Tibetan, or is it acceptable to visualize the alphabet characters?

[Annie Hanson]

Is it possible to practice the Vajrasattva recitation on it’s own? I.e. aside from within a Ngöndro practice? If so – how wouldthat work?

[Hilary Herdman]

Hi Annie,

Yes, it is very good to practice Vajrasattva on its own–we’re purifying all karma and residual tendencies so often our teachers suggest we do at least 21 of the long mantra on a daily basis.  As you know, we generally recite the long mantra 3X after reciting other mantras during a practice to purify any mistakes we may have made.

Here’s a link to a very complete discussion of the different levels of this practice.  https://studybuddhism.com/en/advanced-studies/prayers-rituals/tantric-practices/how-to-practice-vajrasattva

All the best,

Hilary

[Annie Hanson]

Thanks Hilary – that is an amazingly helpful resource!