: If pronounced as "Ithipiso" as one word, it can inadvertently imply "wiping away or removing good qualities" ( pisa damana ) due to the phonetic breakdown in Sinhala, which changes the spiritual intent. Traditional Benefits Reciting the Ithipiso Gathawa is believed to provide:
Linguistic experts and Buddhist monks emphasize that the phrase should be pronounced as (ඉතිපි - සෝ භගවා) rather than merging it into "Ithipiso". Correct Meaning : "Thus indeed is that Blessed One". : If pronounced as "Ithipiso" as one word,
: Endowed with perfect knowledge and conduct. Sugato : One who has gone the good way to Nirvana. Lokavidu : The knower of all worlds. : Endowed with perfect knowledge and conduct
Though he was initially skeptical because it was a Buddhist chant, he found himself facing a terrifying situation later while crossing a stream. Recalling the chant in that moment of danger is said to have invoked a protective force that saved him, illustrating the belief that the chant acts as a shield against malevolent forces and physical danger. Meaning of the Nine Virtues Though he was initially skeptical because it was
: He who has eradicated all defilements and is worthy of offerings. Samma Sambuddho : The fully self-enlightened one.
: The incomparable leader of those to be tamed. Satta Deva Manussanam : The teacher of gods and humans. Buddho : The enlightened or awakened one. Bhagava : The Blessed One. Importance of Correct Pronunciation
A well-known story regarding the power of this gathawa involves the (කුඩුම්බිගල ආරණ්යය). About 40 years ago, before it became a major monk settlement, a non-Buddhist lived in the surrounding forest. One night, he received a message in a dream from a deity-like figure telling him to memorize a specific mantra: the Ithipiso Gathawa .