Essences of Namo in the Theravada Buddhist Scriptures

Abstract

The objective of this research article  is to study the occurrence and significance of the term “Namo” in the Buddhist scriptures, using a documentary research method. The data was analyzed through content analysis and presented as a narrative analysis research report.

 The findings of the research are as follows: 1) The term “Namo” predominantly appears in the Suttanta Pitaka and some volumes of the Vinaya Pitaka of the Pali Canon, but it is not found in the Abhidhamma Pitaka. The patterns of occurrence of this term can be classified into three main types: standalone occurrences, occurrences in conjunction with verbs, and the use of alternative words with similar meanings. Importantly, “Namo” is considered a common term expressing general respect and reverence. It is not a sacred word with inspirational power and did not specify who spoke first. 2) The significance of term “Namo” is identified in nine aspects: (1) Direct expressions of reverence, including homage, respect, veneration, worship, obeisance. (2) Persons and other things that have been shown humility, including the Triple Gem, ordinary people, angels, animals, sacred objects, sacred places, and natures. (3) The custom of using Namo, if used a person, non-human being, animal, and things that are respected in general, only one word Namo is used. Namo combined with verbs or another word instead But if used with the Buddha In addition to using the above words, they also use a specific phprase “Namo Tassa Bhagavato Arahato Sammāsam buddhassa”is recited three (4) The expression of reverence through “Namo” is observed in two ways: as an exclamation of joy and as a formal expression of respect. (5) Physical Gestures of Reverence found in standing, walking, sitting, and lying down. (6) Motivations for Reverence found to come from faith, belief, fear, and a desire for rewards. (7) Practices associated with the expression of “Namo” include covering oneself with a cloth, bending the knees, performing prostration, observing specific days, practicing patience, and uttering the phrase “Namo”. (8) Moral principles related to reverence include the offering of virtuous deeds, worship, ethical conduct, and the karmic consequences. (9) The consequences of expressing reverence through "Namo" manifest on both a mundane level, leading to mental tranquility, happiness, steadfastness of mind, worldly and heavenly blessings, and on a transcendental level, resulting in the attainment of enlightenment, liberation, and the alleviation of suffering through adherence to Buddhist practices.