Etiquette

As with most social gatherings, Buddhist temples have their own traditions. Particularly for Westerners, visiting a temple for the first time can be intimidating: "I’m sure there is a way I am supposed to behave, but I don't know what that is!" You should be aware that no good monk will be offended by a lack of proper etiquette. A well-intentioned attitude is always more important. Courtesy and respect go a long way and are the basis for many of the rules of etiquette. As well as promoting harmony and grace within the community, attention to etiquette is also a way of developing mindfulness in our everyday activities.

Body Language

The most commonly used expression of body language is the añjali -- hands held palm-to-palm in front of the heart and sometimes raised to the lowered forehead. It is a gesture of respect used as a greeting, a goodbye, or a thank-you.

When sitting it is traditionally considered impolite to point the soles of one's feet at either the shrine or at the monks. Also, lying down or stretching out is considered inappropriate in the meditation hall.

Relating to Monks and Nuns

Monks follow a code of discipline that affect the way they relate to people. In particular, it is a serious offense for a monk or nun to have sensual physical contact with someone. In fact, there must be another male present whenever a monk is spending time with a woman. This is to prevent unfortunate situations from occurring as well as harmful gossip and misunderstanding. Partly for this reason, monks will greet people with an añjali rather than hugging or shaking hands.

In addressing a monk, it is considered impolite to refer to them directly by name without an appropriate form of address. To make things easier any monk can be addressed as "bhante" (pronounced BAHN-tay) which is from Pali, the original language of the Buddhist scriptures and means “venerable” or "sir."

Relating to the Temple

There are only two things we request when entering the temple. Firstly – and this is becoming a common new rule of etiquette – please either turn off or silence your cell phone. Secondly, please remove your shoes at the door and enter quietly. The rest of what follows is informational and not expected of anyone.

If you do not have your own meditation cushion you may use any of the cushions or benches provided. We have chairs we can setup in the back of the room for anyone who has back problems. Typically, we all stand until the monks enter and kneel to bow before the shrine. It should be noted that bowing to the Buddha (or to a monk) is not a form of idol worship. It is instead a sign of deep respect for the Buddha’s enlightenment, not the man. We realize that many people come for the meditation or simply out of curiosity so you should in no way feel obligated to bow or to participate in chanting.

If and when you decide to take part in bowing, this is done kneeling and sitting firmly on the heels. Bow forward, putting the hands six inches apart and the elbows directly in front of the knees. Touch the forehead to the floor between the hands. Bow three times, mentally reciting "Buddho" on the first bow, "Dhammo" on the second bow, and "Sangho" on the third. This is done at the beginning and at the end of meditation or Dhamma talk.

If you need advice on how to sit during meditation one of the monks or regulars will be more than happy to help. It is important to find a comfortable position and to try to maintain that for the duration of the session. If you must change positions or get up to use the restroom, please do so as quietly as possible. We invite you to remain for refreshments and socializing after our Dhamma discussions. Bhante Dhammawansha is often free to answer your questions during this time. Above all, know that you are always welcome and we look forward to seeing you.


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