Shigu Seigan Mon: the four great vows of the Boddhisatva
This short sutra represents the ideal of the bodhisattva consisting of it’s four fundamental vows, whose first vow – to save all sentient beings – contains the other three. Sung every morning, this sutra reminds us of the highest mission as practicioner of Mahayana Buddhism and human being in this world. Every day we renew this vow.
The Shigu Seigan Mon follows the Hannya Shingyo during ceremonies.
Shigu Seigan Mon
Shu Jo Muhen Seigando
Bonno Mujin Seigandan
Homon Muryo Seigangaku
Butsu Do Mujo Seiganjo
The four great vows of the Boddhisatva
No matter how numerous the sentient beings
I vow to save them all.
No matter how numerous the passions
I vow to defeat them all
No matter how numerous the dharmas,
I vow to aquire them all.
No matter the perfection which is the Way of the Buddah,
I vow to realise it.
