Metta Chanting

Metta is the Pali word for "loving-kindness". For those uninformed, Pali is an ancient Indian language that preceded modern Sanskrit and was used around the time of the Buddha. Metta is a universal, selfless love that we give to other beings. There are many ways for us to practice metta, including meditation, reciting the sutta, or chanting it.

The chant of metta is a very popular item among Asians, especially those of Theravada Buddhism. This can be attributed to the work of one person - Imee Ooi, a popular composer of various Buddhist music. Her rendition of the metta chant is flawless, and has attracted many a person to it through its soothing melody and calming voice. It's been around for many years now, but you won't be able to find it at any good music stores. You'll probably have to find it at a temple or Buddhist book store (Sukhihotu is one).

Anyway, the power of metta has been demonstrated by many examples throughout the world. When one is radiating metta to every being, it is indeed difficult for others to hurt you. As for me, I have started chanting this daily since I found out about my friend's sickness. Although no amount of chanting can cure him, I hope it alleviates some suffering on his part, and that the devas (gods) can bless him and protect him.

One whole cycle, if you follow the speed of Imee Ooi's rendition, is 9 minutes. Here is a short excerpt of the first few paragraphs. The first line is the original pali terms followed by an English translation. If you would like to read the whole text, please go to the Comments section for this post. I have posted it there.

The Chant of Metta
Aham avero homi
May I be free from enmity and danger

abyapajjho homi
May I be free from mental suffering

anigha homi
May I be free from physical suffering

sukhi - attanam pariharami
May I take care of myself happily

Mama matapitu
May my parents

acariya ca natimitta ca
teacher relatives and friends

sabrahma - carino ca
fellow Dhamma farers

avera hontu
be free from enmity and danger

abyapajjha hontu
be free from mental suffering

anigha hontu
be free from physical suffering

sukhi - attanam pariharantu
may they take care of themselves happily

(for complete text please click on Comments link just below the line after this)