The traditions of the temple refine our behavior in relation to Amida Buddha. The purpose these traditions in the lives of Buddhists is to put into action the reverence and gratitude which we feel for Amida Buddha. In teaching small children, we should convey this feeling of reverence and gratitude, and the basic forms of etiquette. Children will learn through the examples set by their parents and teachers.
Image courtesy: The Iowa
Shinshu Dojo
GASSHO
Gassho means to put the hands together. It signifies the
oneness of Buddha and all beings. It also expresses
reverence and gratitude.The palms of both hands are placed
together with the fingers and thumbs extended and with the
ojuzu encircling both hands and held lightly between the
thumbs and the fingers. Both elbows should be fairly close
to the body and the hands should be at mid-chest level. To
bow during the gassho, the hands should be held steady,
while the body is bent forward from the hips and then back
to the upright position. Gassho is the natural expression
of reverence and gratitude.
NENJU (OJUZU)
The ojuzu should be treated with the utmost respect at all
times. It is a collection of beads with three main beads
strung together is used when in gassho at the time of
worship. Three main beads represent the Three Treasures of
Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, and other beads representing
Buddha's teachings to overcome each suffering of beings. At
home it should be kept in a special place, such as in a
drawer near the family shrine. At other times, the Buddhist
should carry the ojuzu in the purse or in the coat pocket
so that it will always be available. During the service,
the ojuzu should be held in the left hand. The Ojuzu
encircles the hand during gassho symbolizing Oneness.
BURNING OF INCENSE (OSHOKO)
When burning incense, walk up to the front of the shrine
and bow at a distance of about two steps in front of the
incense table. Step up to the table and with the right hand
take a pinch of powdered incense and drop it into the
incense-burner. gassho and bow. Take two steps backward,
bow and return to your seat. The burning of incense should
be done with reverence because it prepares us to receive
the Dharma. It means to pay homage to Buddha and remind
ourselves of the law of impermanency of all things
including ourselves.
USE OF THE SEITEN AND GATHA BOOKS
The Seiten and Gatha books should be handled with proper
care. Before and after the chanting the book should be raised
to the forehead as a gesture of appreciation and
reverence to the words of the Buddha.
ENTERING AND LEAVING THE HONDO (MAIN HALL)
The Hondo should be entered quietly and with reverence.
Upon entering, gassho facing the shrine. Take your seat and
quietly wait for the service to begin. Avoid being late and
try not to enter the Hondo during meditation. Before
leaving the Hondo, when the service is over, turn to face
the shrine and gassho before leaving.
LEADING THE CONGREGATION IN READING
Leading the congregation in reading, whether it be
sacred writings or excerpts from the sutras, is an
honour and therefore should be performed in that spirit.
Gassho and bow towards the shrine before beginning the
reading. Hold the book with both hands and read slowly
and distinctly so that the congregation can follow
together.