The Pratītyasamutpāda-gāthā, also known as the dependent origination dhāraṇī, is considered one of the oldest Buddhist mantras.
This mantra holds significant importance as it is believed to encapsulate the core meaning of the Buddha's teachings. It was a popular Buddhist verse and was widely used as a mantra. While pinpointing the absolute oldest mantra with definitive certainty is challenging due to the nature of oral traditions and the varying interpretations of what constitutes a "mantra," the Pratītyasamutpāda-gāthā stands out as a strong contender within the Buddhist tradition. Its antiquity is supported by its presence in early Buddhist texts and its consistent use throughout Buddhist history.
The Pratītyasamutpāda-gāthā highlights the principle of dependent origination, which emphasizes that all phenomena arise in dependence on other phenomena. This concept is central to Buddhist philosophy and practice. Reciting or contemplating this mantra is believed to lead to a deeper understanding of reality and the path to liberation.
