Tibetan Buddhist vocal music: Chod Dbyangs as a tool for mind cultivation

Background: This study examines a type of Tibetan Buddhist vocal music, chod
dbyang, in Kagyu sect with specific emphasis on phet singing. It traces the philosophy
of Tibetan Buddhism and focuses on the esoteric practice of dbyang chod. It also marks
the function of Tibetan Buddhist vocal music as the religious means to cultivate the
mind to develop Buddha’s highest wisdom and qualities, as well as to reach the goal of
Buddhahood. Previous analyses of selected musical criteria show that chod dbyang and
its phet singing are sung in softly prolonged leveled tones, relaxed and slow manner,
and curtly accents noted with high volume and intensity. Objective: i) To understand
the religious meanings and functions of chod dbyangs in mind cultivation and
purification. ii) To analyze in depth the inner play of the mind during purification
process and how the mind can be further positively transformed by using different
forms of vocal sounds. Results: The subtle inner nature of the mind in relation to the
vocal sounds is revealed. This study refines the studies of how our minds work in the
positive transformation of our true nature via vocal music, as claimed by Tibetan
Buddhism Conclusion: The vocal music is not merely a form of performing arts in chod
dbyangs ritual but a tool for mind cultivation to attain the highest purity of mind and
wisdom of humanity, and ultimately the Buddhahood.