10th February, 2001.
Buddha Worship Ritual. Buddhism Belief Against Violence. People Gain Comfort In Silent Prayers. Visit To Temple By French Speaking Monks. Children Introduced To Buddhism
September, 1993.
Buddha worship is still active in Shanghai. Buddha worship is introduced to quite young children. These are two of the things we learned on my second visit to the Jade Buddha Temple, not with a group, but with just a Chinese friend named Zhong, so
 there was more time to absorb the inspiring spiritual aura of the Chanting Monks and the scent of burning incense and joss sticks.There were many visitors on the day; Chinese families, a Japanese Tourist Group, and a group of French Speaking Monks, yet there was still a calming reverent
atmosphere in the courtyards and temples. Being present here was a memorable experience and it was obvious that those taking part in their private rituals before the White Jade Buddha, or before the altars housed in the open fronted pavilions, were sincere in their beliefs and gained comfort from their silent prayers, kow tows and smouldering joss sticks.
 A mother guided her young son through the rituals and although perhaps he was unaware of their significance, the seeds of belief were being implanted in his mind, which would affect his attitude to Buddhism in later years.
Despite the restrictions imposed during the Cultural Revolution, the belief in Buddhism remained in the thoughts of many Chinese people, and now it is openly expressed in rituals at the temples. Before one altar, a seated guardian
 guided an uninitiated youth through the established ritual of kneeling to kow tow before a Buddha Statue, then a young boy followed, under the watchful eye of his mother. I believe Buddhism is the only "religion" which is against physical violence, but I am prepared to stand corrected !
If you are searching for any of the following topics, then just click them !
|