Typically, when a member of our community or their family member falls seriously ill, the Bhantes are called upon to perform chanting based on the Bojjhangas sutta. This sutta recounts three noteworthy incidents involving Venerable Maha Kassapa, Venerable Moggallana, and the Lord Buddha himself. All of them suffered from illnesses, but were able to recover through the power of reciting the Bojjhanga Sutta. This particular sutta emphasizes the profound impact of the mind on the body, highlighting how negative thoughts can cause harm while positive thoughts can contribute to healing.
The Bojjhangas, also known as the Factors of Enlightenment, are a set of seven factors that include
- Mindfulness (Sati)
- Keen investigation of the dhamma (dhammavicaya)
- Energy (viriya)
- Rapture or happiness (piti)
- Calm (passaddhi)
- Concentration (samadhi)
- Equanimity (upekkha)
- By reciting the Bojjhanga Sutta, individuals create a mental atmosphere consisting of these factors, which not only positively affects their state of mind but also exerts a positive influence on their physical well-being. It is believed that this chanting helps in developing mindfulness, deepening understanding of the dhamma, cultivating mental and physical energy, fostering inner contentment, attaining mental calmness, enhancing concentration, and ultimately, achieving equanimity.
- The significance of this practice lies in its ability to harness the power of the mind to bring about healing. It encourages individuals to cultivate positive thoughts and emotions such as joy, peace, and serenity, which in turn promote physical well-being. In a world where stress, anxiety, and negative thinking often rule our lives, the chanting of the Bojjhanga Sutta serves as a reminder of the inherent ability within us to influence our own well-being, both mentally and physically.
- In conclusion, the practice of chanting the Bojjhanga Sutta in times of illness serves as a powerful tool, demonstrating the interconnectedness between the mind and the body. By focusing on the Factors of Enlightenment, individuals can create a positive mental environment that contributes to healing and recovery. It is a testament to the wisdom and teachings of Buddhism, reminding us of the immense power our minds possess, and providing us with a means to harness that power for our own well-being.
