Making offerings to the Three Jewels: Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha – is a magnificent daily practice. A wonderful day to start a day is to cultivate bodhicitta and generosity for the day ahead. By doing it, we create positive karma and help other sentient beings. Making offerings is a practice
Tibetan Buddhist Temple Dress Modestly Either male or female should have both the legs and the shoulders covered. Take off your shoes. (When visiting a temple, make sure you take off your footwear at the entrance). Do not take pictures with your back facing Buddha statues. Taking photographs is acceptable
The “Laughing Buddha” has many names: Happy Buddha, Fat Buddha, Pu-tai, Budai, or Hotei, even though it isn’t really a Buddha. Who is the Laughing Buddha? History and Meaning The bald, chubby, laughing fellow many Westerners think of as Buddha is a character from tenth-century Chinese folklore. In Buddhism, the
Recognizing the Buddha Nature in All Beings In the intricate tapestry of Buddhist philosophy, the reverence for life extends far beyond the human realm. From the noblest human to the tiniest insect, all sentient beings are regarded as equally precious. At the heart of this belief lies the concept of
In Japan, the bow is more than just a gesture of politeness; it’s a deeply ingrained cultural practice that carries significant meaning and symbolism. From formal greetings to expressions of gratitude, the bow is a ubiquitous part of Japanese social interaction. But why do Japanese people bow, and how does
In the winter Mahayana Buddhists around the world prepare to celebrate the New Year, a time of reflection, renewal, and intention-setting. While the date of this celebration varies among different Mahayana traditions, including Japanese Zen Buddhism, which often observes it on December 31st, the essence remains consistent—a time to contemplate
Visiting temples in China or Taiwan immerses you in a profound cultural and spiritual experience, rooted in centuries-old traditions. Whether you’re there to pray, meditate, or simply to soak in the atmosphere, respecting temple etiquette not only shows reverence for the local culture but also enhances your experience. This guide
Prayer wheels are common religious objects in Tibetan Buddhism, primarily used by Buddhists in Tibet and Nepal. Hand-held prayer wheels, carried by pilgrims and other devotees, are turned during devotional activities. A hand-held prayer wheel is a hollow cylinder, made of wood or metal, attached to a handle. The mantra
Exploring the Concept of Kalpa in Buddhist Cosmology Within the rich tapestry of Buddhist cosmology, time is measured in units known as Kalpas. Derived from Sanskrit, Kalpa signifies a vast period, encompassing the cyclical process of creation and destruction in Hindu and Buddhist cosmologies. Understanding the Magnitude of Kalpas A
