The Core
仰惟三宝偈 (Nyanni-Sanpo-Ge) is a verse recited during the meal practice of Zen Buddhism. It is a formula used to seek refuge in and the protection of the Three Treasures (Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha), and was named 仰惟三宝偈 (Nyanni-Sanpo-Ge) for convenience as it lacks an official title. While commonly regarded as "a verse recited before consuming a meal," this dictionary defines it as "an active declaration that transforms daily behavior into a practice of the Buddhist path through one's own volition."
Q&A
- Q: Why is this verse recited before meals in Zen training monasteries?
- A: Because in Zen, a meal is considered an essential part of one's training, intended to sustain the practitioner's path. By reciting this verse, one transforms the daily act of eating from a mere habit into an "active declaration," consciously turning the meal into a practice of the Buddha-way through one’s own volition.
