2. Ratana Sutta (ရတနသုတ်) — The Jewel Discourse Warding off epidemics, famine, and evil spirits.
(also spelled Pa Yate Kyi 11 Thote or ပရိတ်ကြီး ၁၁ သုတ် in Burmese) translates to the "11 Great Protective Suttas". It is a collection of 11 specific discourses or protective verses from early Buddhist scripture. It is widely used in Theravada Buddhist countries. It is especially prominent in Myanmar for chanting to invoke blessings, protection, and peace. Origins of Parate Kyi 11
The collection’s historical roots trace back to the Buddha’s time, when he exhorted his followers to study and hold these protections in their hearts for security and freedom from harm. In Myanmar culture, this tradition has evolved into a daily practice where the chants are used to bless new homes, celebrate milestones, or provide comfort during illness and calamity.
Each mouthful is a journey through contrasting textures and tastes, typically combining:
A long discourse often used for protection against malevolent spirits or unseen dangers.
Unlike pop songs, "Parate Kyi 11" was never commercially produced for entertainment. It first gained prominence via — vinyl records and cassette tapes containing sermons and devotional music sold at pagoda festivals during the 1970s and 1980s. The raw, often sorrowful vocal delivery, accompanied by a single sandaya (Burmese piano) or a pat waing (drum circle), gave the song its haunting authority. parate kyi 11
: The Discourse on Loving-Kindness. Used to spread peace and overcome fear. Khandha Sutta
The "Parate Kyi" (ပရိတ်ကြီး) is a specific collection of eleven discourses. While the exact order or inclusion may vary slightly, the core collection is universally accepted in Myanmar. They are part of the traditional monastic curriculum, where young novices are trained to memorize them from the original Pali texts. Based on the sources, these are the eleven suttas and their primary protective functions:
In Myanmar, "Parate Kyi 11" is deeply woven into the social and religious fabric:
: A protective chant against snake bites and harmful creatures.
: It is an act of devotion that reminds the practitioner of the Buddha’s teachings. How to Practice It is a collection of 11 specific discourses
In Burmese, "ပရိတ်ကြီး" (Parate Kyi) is derived from the Pali language term Paritta , which literally translates to "protection," "safeguard," or "shield". The suffix "Kyi" means "great" or "large" in Burmese. So, "Parate Kyi" essentially means "The Great Protection." The number "11" refers to the collection of eleven specific discourses or suttas that the Buddha himself preached for the purpose of providing safety from harm, warding off evil, and bringing about well-being.
The phrase "Parate Kyi 11" is a colloquial reference to a specific, widely circulated Buddhist song that enumerates the of human existence. This article serves as the definitive resource, exploring the song's origins, its lyrical meaning, the cultural impact across Myanmar, and why it remains a staple in Buddhist sermons, schools, and even social media.
Below is a detailed table of the eleven suttas, their meanings, and their specific benefits, drawn from traditional sources:
: Spreading universal loving-kindness to all beings.
: A discourse to ensure good fortune and auspiciousness at all times. Cultural and Spiritual Significance Daily Practice Origins of Parate Kyi 11 The collection’s historical
: The Discourse on the Auspicious Morning. Used to ensure success and a good start to any endeavor. Why Do People Chant Them? In Burmese culture, the Parate Kyi 11 is more than ritual; it is a spiritual tool for: Warding off Evil : Protecting the home from negative energies.
In Myanmar, the "Paritta Gyi" is an essential part of religious life. It is commonly recited during housewarming ceremonies, at the start of Buddhist holidays, or during times of personal or national crisis to ensure safety and prosperity.
: The discourse on loving-kindness, used to cultivate goodwill toward all beings.
Rather than serving as magical spells, the Parate Kyi 11 acts as a psychological and spiritual shield rooted in the power of truth ( Sacca-kiriya ), loving-kindness ( Metta ), and the profound wisdom of the Buddha's teachings. The Origin and Meaning of Parate Kyi 11