The Role of Chanting and Prayer in Buddhism: A Multidimensional Review
International Journal of Humanities Social Sciences and Education January 1, 2026 Bishnu Hari Paudel
Contemporary scholarship recognizes vocal practices such as sutta recitation, paritta chanting, mantra repetition, and devotional invocation as central to Buddhism, challenging earlier Western views of it as a rational philosophy focused on individual meditation. Chanting involves rhythmic recitation of canonical texts, protective formulas, and mantras, often in liturgical languages not fully understood by lay participants. Prayer overlaps with aspirational verses, bodhisattva vows, and invocations directed toward buddhas, bodhisattvas, or deities, especially in Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions. Unlike theistic petitionary prayer, Buddhist prayer emphasizes aspiration for universal welfare, confession, and merit dedication, though popular practice includes requests for protection, health, prosperity, and favorable rebirth.