nam mô
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Interjection:
- A devotional salutation or invocation: "Nam mô" is a respectful and reverent exclamation used at the beginning of prayers, chants, or mantras in Buddhism, primarily to express veneration towards the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, or sacred teachings.
Usage Examples
- Interjection:
- Nam mô A Di Đà Phật. (Homage to Amitabha Buddha.)
- Các Phật tử chắp tay và niệm "Nam mô". (The Buddhists clasp their hands and chant "Nam mô".)
Advanced Usage
- Liturgical formula: It is almost exclusively used in fixed, formulaic religious contexts, particularly in Pure Land Buddhism, as part of devotional phrases.
- "Nam mô" thường đứng trước danh hiệu của một vị Phật. ("Nam mô" typically precedes the name of a Buddha.)
Variants and Related Words
- Na mô (Interjection): This is a variant form with identical meaning and usage to "nam mô". It is a phonetic variation.
- "Na mô" và "nam mô" được dùng thay thế cho nhau. ("Na mô" and "nam mô" are used interchangeably.)
Synonyms
- Kính lạy (v): to pay homage, to revere (a more general verb for showing deep respect).
- Đảnh lễ (v): to prostrate in worship (refers to the physical act of bowing).
Notes on Meaning
- Religious specificity: This word has a very specific religious connotation and is not used in everyday secular conversation. Its sole function is devotional.
- Etymological note: The term originates from Sanskrit "namas" (meaning homage, salutation) via classical Buddhist texts.
- như na mô