These chants are from One Mind Zen on December 22, 2021 in memory of Great Teacher, friend, and founder of the Five Mountain Zen Order, Wonji Dharma. Chanting Kwanseum Bosal and Jijang Bosal are typical chants to commemorate someone's death. We chant not only in his memory, but for ourselves as a Sangha, and for the sake of all beings everywhere.
Why do we chant, and not just sit in meditation? We chant sincerely not for any magical properties the chant might have, or supernatural reasons. We chant as a Sangha, to realize the unity of all things, while not neglecting the differences among all things. We chant as an exercise in laser-sharp concentration, paying attention not only to what we are chanting ourselves, but also to the other members of the sangha, to the sound of the moktak. In doing so, we can perceive that state of unity and difference of self and others.
Most importantly we chant with sincerity. Zen Master Seung Sahn once said that one could chant "Coca Cola, Coca Cola, Coca Cola," and if done with sincerity it would be no different than chanting Jijang Bosal or the Heart Sutra. We don't need to understand the words, be they in English or in this case, Korean. Words are unimportant. That feeling you get when the chant and the chanter become one is important.
"Life and death are of supreme importance.
Opportunities to awaken are easily lost.
Strive to realize your True Nature.
Do not squander your time by night or day."
