“Namu Amida Butsu,” Path to “Calm Abiding” “Insight,” Satori; Handmade Medal/Prayer Wheel
A handmade medal/pendant/prayer wheel of the Buddhist chant “Namu Amida Butsu” (I take refuge in the Buddha of Infinite Light), to be used as an aid in meditation. It can be worn, carried, or held and has 10 “knots” to help in counting. I design, carve, and cast the medals myself (see last 2 photos for part of the process). Each medal comes on a jump ring, so it can be attached to any chain you have. It also comes with a split ring (see packaging photo) so it can be put on a key chain. The piece comes in a jewelry pouch with a history card that that states:
"This handmade medal/prayer wheel is meant as a device to aid in repeating the Buddhist chant 'Namu amida butsu' (I take refuge in the Buddha of Infinite Light/Wisdom and Life/Compassion). On each side is a tiny image of one of the great practitioners (Honen and Shinran) of the nembutsu or nianfo (terms used to refer to the practice). Before delving into complex issues of how and why to chant, it is best to establish a simple practice, for the chant itself, not reasoning about it, is what offers access to 'calm abiding' and 'insight.' The chant is not a prayer or a mantra: it is a practice that emphasizes reciting the Buddha’s name and recalling Buddha. One suggestion of how to use: the chant should be said slowly, emptying the mind at the end of each repetition; after persistent repetition, the mind gradually empties of concepts, and one experiences reality/essential nature as it is, not as viewed through one’s thoughts; the mind steadies. In other words, after devoted practice, one begins to get a taste, whether small or overwhelming, of 'primordial wisdom,' of 'the still point of the turning world.' In some traditions, the chant is done with the aid of prayer beads. Thus, this medal/wheel, which was designed, carved, and cast by hand at In the Company of Saints, has 10 “knots” on each side, which can be used as one works toward stillness, wisdom, and satori."
Dimensions: 1.25 in diameter
