In this dharani, the Buddha, summoning all the tathagatas, together with the Four Great Kings proclaim a knowledge mantra that would protect sentient beings from the "single great fear" of death. 

Anyone who recites the mantra on a daily basis will be protected from untimely death, serious disease, harm from the elements, rebirths in the lower realms, and so forth. They "will also benefit the lives of all sentient beings," says the Buddha, adding that "Those who serve sentient beings, serve the buddhas." 

Kyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche returned to this dharani?many times over the years, expounding its benefits, giving the oral transmission of it and translating it into English (albeit with the assistance of other FPMT sangha). 

One point that Rinpoche strongly emphasizes is that it should be recited with the heartfelt wish to benefit others—as the dharani itself suggests. 

While he has said that it is "extremely worthwhile" to try to recite the dharani once if not three times daily, Rinpoche also skilfully advises that the "main thing to do is to recite the mantra once or three times" when doing the short practice.  

English translation by Kyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche et al., 2010–2022. Short daily practice appended.  

12 pages, 2022 Edition.