Vitsiting pagodas and temples

Visiting a Buddhist pagodas or temple in Vietnam is a serene and spiritual experience. The majority of Vietnamese people embrace Buddhist beliefs and hold great reverence for their saints. Stepping into the realm of Buddha or God means entering a world of purity and sanctity. Regardless of the chaos and turmoil that may exist outside, once you cross the threshold of Tam Quan, the temple gates, your mind must be kept pure. To ensure a respectful and meaningful visit, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the following principles and guidelines.

Dress Code

Embracing Simplicity and Sanctity

The concept of Buddhism emphasizes simplicity and sanctity in sacred places of worship. Therefore, when visiting a Buddhist pagoda, it is crucial to choose attire that reflects these values. Avoid wearing short skirts, blazers, split skirts, or revealing outfits. Instead, opt for elegant and modest clothing. For Buddhists, it is customary to wear ceremonial robes when entering the pagodas within the temple.

Entry and Exit

Embrace Silence and Lightness

Temples and pagodas are considered pure places, deserving of tranquility and reverence. When entering these sacred grounds, remember to tread lightly and speak softly. As you pass through the three-way gate to enter the temple, make your way through the Gia Quan gate on the right, and upon leaving, exit through the Khong Quan gate on the left. The Trung Quan gate is exclusively reserved for the Son of Heaven, high-ranking monks, and scholars who enter and exit the temple. Abiding by these entry and exit rules ensures harmony and respect within the temple environment.

Ritual of Prayer

Seeking Blessings and Protection

According to Buddhist beliefs, the Buddha bestows blessings of peace and protection upon his followers, but not on worldly desires such as fame and fortune. Therefore, when praying at the temple, it is customary to seek the Buddha's protection and blessings. You may offer prayers for luck in your career or love life.

Lighting incense is a traditional practice when visiting the temple. However, considering the large number of visitors, it is advisable for each person to use only one incense stick. During festival seasons, the pagoda provides incense sticks, and if you wish to burn incense, it is best to do so in the community incense bowl in the yard, rather than in the main hall. It is worth noting that modern incense products often contain impurities and chemicals that can impact one's health.

Etiquette of Greeting

Respectful Salutations

When entering the pagoda or temple, it is customary to greet the abbot, monks, and nuns using the Buddha's name, "Amitabha Buddha," rather than their personal names. This gesture signifies respect and acknowledgment of their spiritual roles. Similarly, when departing, bid farewell using the same phrase. This expression of respect acknowledges the immeasurable merits gained by both visitors and the temple.

Taboos to respecting sacred spaces

To maintain the sanctity and reverence of the Buddhist temple, it is essential to observe certain taboos:

Photography and Videos

Avoid taking pictures or recording videos indiscriminately within the pagodas, temples, and palaces.

Proper Positioning

Refrain from standing or kneeling in the middle of the Buddha hall while paying respects to the Buddha. This area holds significant reverence and is reserved for the abbot. Instead, stand or kneel slightly to the side.

Respectful Demeanor

Show dignified respect when facing the Buddha image. Avoid looking around or behaving frivolously in front of the Three Jewels. If you wish to admire the Buddha statue, do so from the outside.

Maintaining Silence

Do not run, engage in excessive conversation, comment, sit, or lie down within the Buddha hall. Avoid sneezing, having a runny nose, or spitting in the vicinity of the Buddha temple and the Three Jewels.

Children's Behavior

Ensure that children do not run around the Three Jewels, tamper with offerings, or touch Buddha statues without permission.

Reverence and Respect

Refrain from making noise or using disrespectful language toward Buddhas and saints. Avoid pointing at Buddha images with your hand, as it demonstrates a lack of respect.

Walking Etiquette

When walking, avoid crossing the path of individuals who are bowing.

Ceremonial Conduct

During ceremonies, avoid kneeling behind those who are standing to burn incense.

Personal Belongings

It is considered inappropriate to bring hats, towels, bags, sticks, gloves, or other personal belongings into the Three Jewels area for worship. Placing such items on tables, mats, or in corners within the Three Jewels dissolves the sanctity cultivated over time. Therefore, it is advisable to refrain from bringing personal belongings when entering the Tam Bao (Three Jewels) area.

By adhering to these etiquette guidelines, you will demonstrate respect for the Buddhist traditions and contribute to the oerene atmosphere within the temple. Remember, when visiting a Buddhist temple in Vietnam, immerse yourself in the tranquility and embrace the spiritual teachings they offer.