Magha Puja Day 2026 GMT+7 Many people ask which chant is best to recite? It should be noted that we can chant the homage to the Triple Gem, the homage bow to the Triple Gem, ask forgiveness from the Triple Gem, the Threefold Refuge chant, and even the loving-kindness chant.
But the truly important chant for Magha Puja Day is the "Ovat Patimokkha" which is the core of Buddhism. It is the principle that the Buddha taught to 1,250 arahants on Magha Puja Day.
Normally, the full Ovat Patimokkha chant is quite long and intended for monks. Most laypeople like us prefer to recite a shortened version of the chant as follows.
(Recite Namo three times)
Avoid all evil,
do all good,
and purify the mind.
Make your mind pure.
This is the teaching of the Buddhas.
Patience and endurance are supreme austerity.
The wise say that Nirvana is supreme.
One who harms others is not a true monk.
One who oppresses others is not a true ascetic.
Do no evil, do no harm,
maintain discipline,
know moderation in eating,
rest and sleep in calm and quiet places,
and practice energy in effort (train the mind).
This is the teaching of the Buddhas.
As mentioned above, many worry whether the Ovat Patimokkha chant
1. Can ordinary people (laypersons) recite it?
Yes. Although in the Buddha’s time this chant was for monastic assemblies (Sangha council), nowadays all four Buddhist groups (monks, nuns, male lay followers, female lay followers) can recite it. Its content is the “heart of the teachings” that reminds us to do good, avoid evil, and train the mind.
2. On which day should the Ovat Patimokkha chant be recited?
Magha Puja Day is the most appropriate because it marks the anniversary of when the Buddha delivered this teaching.
On regular Buddhist holy days, it is commonly recited to review moral precepts and life principles.
It can be recited daily. Chanting this is like memorizing the iron laws of happiness and liberation from suffering. Frequent recitation builds patience and calmness.
3. When should it be recited?
During morning and evening prayers, it is often included in the standard chants at many temples.
Before meditation, to help focus the mind on the principle of “purifying the mind.”
During candlelight processions, some temples may recite it before beginning the procession.
However, chanting the Ovat Patimokkha with understanding of its meaning enhances focus and allows one to grasp the true essence of Magha Puja Day clearly and deeply.