Practice of the 35 Confessional Buddhas in Mahayana Buddhism

The practice of the 35 Confessional Buddhas is a profound purification ritual rooted in Mahayana Buddhism, originating from the teachings of Buddha Shakyamuni himself. Derived from the Mahayana Sutra of the Three Superior Heaps, this practice has been passed down through generations, offering practitioners a means to purify their negative karma and cultivate spiritual growth.

Origin and Background:

According to the Ratnakutasutra and commentary by Nagarjuna, the practice finds its origin in the story of 35 Bodhisattva students of Buddha Shakyamuni. Implicated in the accidental death of a beer-seller's son, they sought redemption through confession to Elder Upali, who then relayed their plea to Buddha Shakyamuni. Despite their innocence, Buddha Shakyamuni taught the Triskandhadharmasutra as a method of purification, foreseeing its benefit for future practitioners.

Practice and Ritual:

The practice entails the recitation and meditation upon the names and qualities of the 35 Confessional Buddhas, accompanied by prostrations, offerings, and sincere repentance for one's misdeeds. Each Buddha represents a specific aspect of purification, guiding practitioners towards spiritual transformation and the eradication of negative karma. Lama Tsongkhapa, a renowned figure in Tibetan Buddhism, exemplified this practice through an intensive retreat involving 3.5 million prostrations to each of the 35 Buddhas.

Significance and Benefits:

The practice of the 35 Confessional Buddhas holds profound significance within Mahayana Buddhism. It serves as a potent means of purifying negative karma, cultivating virtues, and progressing along the path to enlightenment. By sincerely engaging in this practice, practitioners not only cleanse their past misdeeds but also establish a closer connection with the enlightened beings and deepen their understanding of emptiness.

Lama Tsongkhapa's Example:

Lama Tsongkhapa's dedication to the practice of the 35 Confessional Buddhas serves as a remarkable example of its transformative power. Through his intensive retreat and unwavering commitment, he attained profound realizations, including direct perception of emptiness. His experience underscores the efficacy of this practice in guiding practitioners towards spiritual insight and liberation.

Conclusion:

The practice of the 35 Confessional Buddhas stands as a timeless and transformative ritual within Mahayana Buddhism. Rooted in the teachings of Buddha Shakyamuni and exemplified by figures like Lama Tsongkhapa, it offers practitioners a profound means of purifying negative karma, cultivating virtues, and advancing on the path to enlightenment. Through sincere engagement with this practice, practitioners can embark on a journey of spiritual purification and realization, ultimately leading to profound awakening and liberation.