助念方法=way or approach of chanting services; 助念內容=contents of chanting services; 助念時段=time slot of chanting services; 助念專用法物=objects and instruments used in chanting services; 死亡觀解=concept of death
The purpose of this research is to explore and compare the way of chanting services between the Chang-Te Western Lotus Society and the No-Na Hwa-Chang Chanting Group, which includes studying the foundation and the application of perspectives and meanings of death that their approach of chanting services is based upon. The methodology includes literature review, actual participation and general interviews. In regards to the details of approach taken by the two organizations in services provided, we specifically looked at their chanting contents and procedure, their timing and specific instruments and objects that they used.
By studying the approach of chanting services provided by both organizations, the research found out that part of it originated from the tantra but other parts were modified due to influencing factors. It could be generalized as below: 1.According to chronicle of the tantra, ones will reside in Western Pureland regardless of Amitabha or the Six Words Mantra (Om Mani Padme Hung) was being chanted. The latter even could reside in the pores of the skin of the GuanYin Bodhisattva’s body. There is no difference between essence of Buddha or bodhisattva. Again, either way, one could reside there forever without transmigration to the other six routes until one had achieved enlightenment with the prerequisite of faith or confidence. 2.Cheng-Te and No-na chanted Ksitigarbha-Pranidhana Sutra even though it was clearly stated in the tantra that Six Words Mantra, one could rely on power of the Buddha and Bodhisattva to purify ones negativity and obscurations. This act is probably due to the will of the Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva rescuing his mother from hell and this spirit fits the Chinese filial piety. 3.Both of organization emphasized on eight to twelve hours chanting services, only chanted Amitabha’s name but not other sutra because according to the tantra, a verse of Amitabha or Om Mani Padme Hung encompassed all theory of tantra as well as compassion, wisdom and power of the Buddha and Bodhisattva. 4.In addition to chanting, both organizations stress on “counseling”, which is also one of the most important part of chanting services. Their counseling contents would include the Bardo circumstances with reference to The Tibetan Book of the Dead. However the description was brief as compared to the book. Moreover, the idea of Western Pureland were introduced in the counseling. 5.In public memorial ceremo
