Ven. Waharaka Thero was known for emphasizing the of Pali terms, often moving away from traditional Sanskritized interpretations to uncover what he termed the "true Dhamma".
The "Budu Guna Gathawa" (Itipiso Gatha) is a central Buddhist chant that honors the nine supreme qualities of the Buddha. In the teachings of the late , chanting this 108 times is more than a ritual; it is a profound method of Buddhānusati (recollection of the Buddha) designed to bridge the gap between mere recitation and spiritual realization. 1. The Essence of the Itipiso Gatha In the teachings of the late , chanting
: Endowed with clear vision and perfect conduct. Sugato : The "Well-Gone" One who has reached Nibbana. Lokavidū : The Knower of the Worlds. Sugato : The "Well-Gone" One who has reached Nibbana
The chant lists the nine virtues (Nawa Arahadi Budu Guna) of the Enlightened One: : The Worthy One, free from all defilements. Sammā-sambuddho : The Self-Enlightened One. Waharaka Thero’s Unique Perspective
: The Unsurpassed Trainer of persons to be tamed. Satthā Deva-manussānaṃ : The Teacher of gods and humans. Buddho : The Awakened One. Bhagavā : The Blessed or Exalted One. 2. Waharaka Thero’s Unique Perspective
