Recitation of the “Buddho” in the Thai Forest Tradition and Nian-Fo in the Chinese Pure Land School: A Comparative Study

Abstract

The Thai forest tradition, or Thai northeastern forest tradition, which originated from King Lama IV’s religious revolution, is one of the most important meditation practice traditions in Thailand. This tradition aims to achieve final liberation through strict meditation practice. The unique meditation technique they promote is the recitation of the mantra “Buddho”. They practice the recitation of “Buddho” together with an awareness of breathing in and out. This meditation technique seems similar to the technique of Nian-fo (recitation of Buddha’s name) in the Chinese pure land school; however, this article points out that these two techniques are quite different in not only their scriptural bases but also their methods practice and the results they bring.