Kammā Vācanā: Asking for Forgiveness

The Buddha taught that we benefit from recognizing our faults and abandoning them. Although the Triple Gem cannot actually forgive us, developing a wish to overcome our shortcomings can lead to our happiness and well-being.

Kāyena vācā cittena, pamādena mayā kataṁ
Accayaṁ khama me bhante, Bhūri-pañña tathāgata

Kāyena vācā cittena, pamādena mayā kataṁ
Accayaṁ khama me dhamma, Sanditthika akālika.

Kāyena vācā cittena, pamādena mayā kataṁ
Accayaṁ khama me saṅgha, puññak-kettaṁ anuttara.

If, due to negligence, I have done some wrong, by body, speech, or mind,
Forgive me of that offense, O Bhante, perfect One of vast wisdom.

If, due to negligence, I have done some wrong, by body, speech, or mind,
Forgive me of that offense, O Dhamma, visible and unaffected by time.

If, due to negligence, I have done some wrong, by body, speech, or mind,
Forgive me of that offense, O Sangha, supreme field of merit.