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Chanting is a very popular Buddhist ritualistic practice in every Buddhist traditions either Theravāda, Mahāyāna or Vajrayāna. It is the most popular and sacred practice among Buddhists. The Pali word for chanting is paritta'. The recitation of parittas is called 'paritta sajjhāyana. 'Sajjhāyana' means to recite with concentration. The commentators give a definition on paritta as follows. "Parisamantato tāyati rakkhatīti parittam" - That which safeguards and gives all around protection is called paritta.
It is believed that this word paritta is a created word from the Sanskrit word'paritrāna', which is derived from the root 'tra to protect. A Sanskrit Dictionary by Sir Monier Williams gives several meaning for 'paritrāna as rescue, preservation, deliverance from, protection or means of protection, and refuge.