Khanda Paritta: The Ancient Buddhist Protection Against Snakes and Harmful Beings | Calm Mind

Khanda Paritta: The Ancient Buddhist Protection Against Snakes and Harmful Beings

Introduction

In a world where dangerous creatures, especially snakes, pose a threat to human life, ancient wisdom offers real protection. The Khanda Paritta is one of the most powerful protective chants in Buddhist tradition, believed to shield people from harm, particularly from venomous snakes. This article delves into the origins, meaning, and benefits of chanting Khanda Paritta while also providing practical insights on protection from dangerous animals.

The Story Behind Khanda Paritta

The Piruvana Poth Vahanse (The Great Book of Protection) is recited in Buddhist temples and homes to ward off evil and bring prosperity. Among the sacred texts, Khanda Paritta is a special chant that generates loving-kindness and acts as a divine incantation against venomous snakes.

The story behind this Paritta originates from an unfortunate incident where a Buddhist monk was bitten by a deadly snake and passed away. When the disciples informed the Buddha, he revealed that the monk had failed to practice Metta Bhavana (loving-kindness meditation) towards the four groups of snakes. The Buddha then taught Khanda Paritta as a means of ensuring protection against such creatures.

The Four Types of Snakes Mentioned in the Paritta

The Buddha described four main types of venomous snakes that pose a danger to human beings:

• Virupakkhas – These snakes have no legs and move by crawling.
• Erapathas – Some of these snakes have two legs.
• Chabyaputtas – These are four-legged snakes.
• Kanhagotamakas – Snakes that have multiple legs.

By chanting Khanda Paritta, one invokes a protective shield against these dangerous creatures and other venomous beings.

The Power of Loving-Kindness (Metta) in Protection

One of the core teachings of Buddhism is the practice of Metta, or loving-kindness, towards all living beings. The Buddha emphasized that if the monk had cultivated Metta towards the snakes, he would not have been bitten. Khanda Paritta is deeply rooted in this principle, radiating loving-kindness to all beings so that they do no harm.

Khanda Paritta (The Group Protection Chant)

Virūpakkhehi me mettaṁ
Mettaṁ Erāpathehi me
Chabyā-puttehi me mettaṁ
Mettaṁ Kaṁhā-Gotamakehi ca

I have goodwill for the Virupakkhas, the Erapathas, goodwill for the Chabya descendants, & the Black Gotamakas.

Apādakehi me mettaṁ
Mettaṁ di-pādakehi me
Catuppadehi me mettaṁ
Mettaṁ bahuppadehi me

I have goodwill for footless beings, two-footed beings, goodwill for four-footed, & many-footed beings.

Mā maṁ apādako hiṁsi
Mā maṁ hiṁsi di-pādako
Mā maṁ catuppado hiṁsi
Mā maṁ hiṁsi bahuppado

May footless beings, two-footed beings do me no harm.
May four-footed beings & many-footed beings do me no harm.

How Often Should One Chant Khanda Paritta?

For maximum protection, one should recite Khanda Paritta daily, particularly in the morning and before sleeping. The regular chanting of this Paritta fosters a positive energy field, acting as a spiritual barrier against harm.

Scientific and Psychological Benefits of Chanting Parittas

Beyond spiritual protection, chanting Khanda Paritta has profound psychological and health benefits:

• Reduces stress and anxiety – Reciting the chant calms the mind and promotes inner peace.
• Enhances focus and mindfulness – The rhythmic nature of the chant aids concentration.
• Boosts immunity – Studies suggest that meditation and chanting positively impact overall health.
• Generates positive vibrations – Chanting with Metta radiates kindness, which influences the environment.

Other Practical Measures to Stay Safe from Snakes

While chanting Khanda Paritta offers spiritual protection, it is also essential to take practical steps:

• Keep surroundings clean – Snakes are attracted to garbage and clutter.
• Seal entry points – Ensure doors, windows, and cracks are sealed.
• Use natural deterrents – Snakes dislike strong scents like garlic and cinnamon.
• Be cautious in snake-prone areas – Wear boots and use a stick while walking in forests.

Conclusion

The Khanda Paritta is a powerful tool for protection against snakes and other harmful creatures. By cultivating Metta and reciting this sacred chant regularly, one can create a shield of loving-kindness that ensures safety. Combining spiritual wisdom with practical measures guarantees a life free from the fear of venomous creatures.

FAQs

1. Can non-Buddhists chant Khanda Paritta?
   Yes, anyone can chant Khanda Paritta and experience its protective power.

2. How long does it take to memorize Khanda Paritta?
   With regular practice, one can memorize it within a few days to a few weeks.

3. Can chanting alone prevent snake bites?
   Chanting provides spiritual protection, but practical safety measures should also be followed.

4. What time of day is best for chanting Khanda Paritta?
   Early morning and before bedtime are ideal times.

5. Does this Paritta protect from other animals besides snakes?
   Yes, it extends protection to all creatures, including scorpions, centipedes, and spiders.

Namo Buddhaya!