Simple Guide to Attending Buddhist Ceremonies by Akasha Lonsdale

Author:Akasha Lonsdale [Lonsdale, Akasha]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 978-1-85733-653-5
Publisher: Kuperard
Published: 2011-09-20T00:00:00+00:00

Offering incense at the temple of Wat Phra Kaeo in the Grand Palace compound in Bangkok, Thailand.

WHAT IS HAPPENING?

If you are attending a class for meditation or teaching, you may find that monks or nuns are present, and it is customary for practising Buddhists to bow slightly to them with hands cupped (only fingertips and palms touching to emulate the shape of the lotus bud) as a mark of respect for their dedication to a life of devotion for the good of all, and for their knowledge. You might see Buddhists kneel and prostrate themselves (touching the forehead, nose, hands, knees and toes to the ground) in front of a statue of the Buddha, or perform a full-length body prostration. These acts of devotion are not idolatrous but marks of respect for their symbolism, that is, the teachings that lead to liberation from suffering. As a visitor you would not be expected to do any of these.

A meditation or teaching session always starts and ends with a bell or gong, and might include chanting and prayer, depending on the focus for that occasion.

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