Why do Buddhists and spiritual practitioners always recite "Namo 3 times" before chanting? This article reveals the true meaning, referencing ancient beliefs that bring auspiciousness and help prepare the mind before starting various ceremonies.
Whether visiting a temple to make merit, chanting before sleep, or performing any spiritual ritual, the first practice that Buddhists and devotees have been taught since ancient times is to recite "Namo 3 times." But have you ever wondered why we begin with this chant? What does chanting Namo 3 times mean? And from the spiritual perspective, how important is this short chant for success in making wishes?
The chant "Namo 3 times" means what? The familiar phrase is "Namo Tassa Bhagavato Arahato Sammasambuddhassa," a respectful homage to the Buddha based on Buddhist principles, which can be translated as follows:
Namo Tassa Bhagavato means "Homage to the Blessed One, the Exalted One,"
Arahato means "Who is free from defilements,"
Sammasambuddhassa means "Who has perfectly awakened by himself."
Combined, it means "Homage to the Blessed One, the Exalted One, who is free from defilements and has perfectly awakened by himself." This expresses the highest respect to the Buddha before reciting other chants.
Repeating three times is an ancient Indian custom to affirm firm intention. Additionally, religious texts state that chanting three times shows respect to the Triple Gem—the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha. Repetition also helps the chanter focus on the present moment, cutting off worldly distractions, calming the mind, and fostering concentration.
Belief in energy and mind is very important. Reciting Namo 3 times is considered "opening the way" and "connecting energy waves."
It adjusts the mind's frequency. Chanting with intention helps calm a confused mind and cleanses negative energy before starting the blessing chants.
Showing humility According to ancient belief, showing humility to the highest sacred entities invites the kindness and favor of deities and sacred beings, who then are willing to grant blessings.
Spiritual protection Many traditions believe the Namo chant is the foundational Buddhist power that protects the chanter from evil during meditation or rituals.
Reciting Namo 3 times is not just a tradition passed down without thought. It contains profound wisdom, reflecting utmost respect, focus to cultivate concentration, and from a belief perspective, opening the path to receive auspicious blessings. Understanding its true meaning helps make every chanting session powerful and genuinely peaceful.