Sesshin and ordination
Next week I'll be in sesshin for a week - the longest ever for me. Not only that but I'll be taking my 'Bodhisattva ordination' (a fancy name for Jukai /taking the precepts/taking refuge). However, before I can do that I have to finish sewing my rakusu and there's still loads to do! Wish me luck!
posted by Shonin @ Monday, May 21, 2007
9 comments
9 Comments:
Boy, your knees are going to be sore! Good luck. It's interesting, in Tibetan Buddhism refuge, taking precepts, and bodhisattva vow are three separate ceremonies, while in Zen Buddhism it sounds like they roll them all up into one lolapalooza.
Good luck!
Justin:
What does the ceremony mean to you?
You do a bit of sewing and say some words. What changes?
I think that making formal vows can make a change to your attitude, especially your sense of committment - just like getting married (often) does. Also, it will allow me to take part in other ceremonial aspects of the practice, and have new responsibilities which I think I'll enjoy. But mainly I hope it will make my practice stronger.
Don't underestimate the importance of psychological factors in any situation. Psychological techniques are very important in Buddhism.
Good luck. Beware mara.
justin:
"Don't underestimate the importance of psychological factors in any situation"
I don't. Often belief is important in order for something to occur.
I was just curious as to what your motivation was. Lot's of people might take such vows for different reasons.
Your answer was broadly inline with what I thought you might say.
Thank you.
Thanks everyone for your good wishes - I appreciate it.
Hi Justin,
May I belatedly add my good wishes to those that have already been expressed. And I agree with what you wrote about jukai and the public declaration that goes with it being able to make a difference in our commitment to practice. I also agree with what you wrote about the importance of psychological skillful means.
All the best,
Michael
Thanks for your blessings and advice Mike. Nice to see you around. Take care.
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