An audio summary of Sitātapatrā Born from the Uṣṇīṣa of All Tathāgatas, based on the 84000 translation.
Sitātapatrā Born from the Uṣṇīṣa of All Tathāgatas
Source: 84000.co translation of the canonical Buddhist text
Genre: dharani
Tradition: Vajrayana
Overview
The text “Sitātapatrā Born from the Uṣṇīṣa of All Tathāgatas” is a canonical Buddhist scripture that features a spell associated with the female deity Sitātapatrā, also known as the White Umbrella Goddess. This spell is said to originate from the uṣṇīṣa of Buddha Śākyamuni while he is in samādhi among the gods of the Heaven of the Thirty-Three. The text is primarily a litany of spells intended to avert various dangers, illnesses, and threats, and it has maintained popularity as a protective measure against misfortune in Buddhist communities.
The text is one of four preserved in the Degé Kangyur dedicated to Sitātapatrā, each representing variations of the same core material. Toh 590, the longest of these, reflects a later stage in the spell’s evolution within the Indic Buddhist tradition. The text includes a scriptural introduction that sets the stage for Śākyamuni’s revelation of the deity and her spell, followed by a series of spells and recitations invoking Sitātapatrā to provide protection.
Key Teachings
Protection from Dangers
The text emphasizes the use of Sitātapatrā’s spell to avert a wide range of threats, including physical illnesses, mental disorders, and supernatural forces.
Invocation of Deities
The spell involves invoking Sitātapatrā in various forms, equating her with other renowned female deities like Tārā and Bhṛkuṭī, to enhance its protective power.
Historical Evolution
The text reflects the historical development of Sitātapatrā’s spell, with different versions showing its adaptation and translation across cultures and languages.
Textual Variations
Among the four texts in the Degé Kangyur, Toh 590 is noted for its length and detailed homage section, distinguishing it from other versions.
Contemporary Relevance
Despite its ancient origins, the spell of Sitātapatrā continues to be relevant in modern Vajrayāna traditions, particularly in Nepal and Tibet.
Key Terms
- uṣṇīṣa
- The protuberance on the crown of a Buddha’s head, symbolizing wisdom.
- samādhi
- A state of meditative concentration.
- vidyā
- A term for both a class of deities and a type of magical formula.
- pratyaṅgirā
- A type of spell used for averting threats.
- aparājitā
- Meaning “invincible,” used to describe the potency of the spell.
- mahāvidyārajñī
- “Great queen of spells,” a designation for powerful spells.
- dhāraṇī
- A type of protective spell or incantation.
- tathāgata
- An epithet for a Buddha, meaning “thus-gone one.”
- kriyātantra
- A class of tantric texts focused on ritual actions.
- Degé Kangyur
- A collection of Tibetan Buddhist scriptures.
Practice Points
- Recite the Sitātapatrā spell to avert specific dangers and illnesses.
- Invoke Sitātapatrā in her various forms for enhanced protection.
- Inscribe or wear the spell as a talisman for continuous protection.
- Study the historical context and variations of the spell for deeper understanding.
- Incorporate the spell into daily practice for ongoing security.
- Explore the connection between Sitātapatrā and other protective deities.
- Engage with contemporary Vajrayāna practices to see the spell’s modern applications.