Angulimala Paritta

Ven. Angulimala, on one of his usual daily rounds for alms, came upon a house where he heard the sharp cries of an expectant mother undergoing protracted labour.

Feeling rather inadequate and helpless, he reported the incident to the Buddha. The Buddha then instructed Ven. Angulimala to return to the same house to give a recital whereupon the woman delivered her baby without further difficulties. Ever since, this recital has come to be known as the Angulimala paritta.

Yatoham bhagini ariyaya jatiya jato
Nabhi janami sancicca
Panam jivita voropeta
Tena saccena sotthi te
Hotu sotthi gabbhassa

Sister, from (the time of) my being born in the Noble Birth (Arahantahood)
I do not know of myself having purposely deprived any living creature of life.
By this truth may you be safe,
may there be safety for (the child in) your womb.