Buddhist Custom

Observing 8 precepts

All Buddhists strive to observe 5 precepts for the benefit of themselves and mankind. These are:
not to kill any living creature;
not to steal;
to abstain from sexual misconduct;
not to lie;
and not to consume intoxicants including drugs and cigarettes.

On special occasions, Buddhists observe 8 precepts. Changing the third one to abstain from sexual contact; The additional 3 precepts are:
not to eat after midday;
to abstain from frivolous entertainment and bodily decoration;
not to sleep in high or luxurious beds.

During the retreat participants will be expected to observe 8 precepts unless for medical reasons they are unable to. After midday participants will be given refreshment such as juice and hot chocolate. They may also eat chocolate, as it is considered a solidified liquid, rather than a solid foodstuff.

The monks

The meditation sessions and Dhamma talks will be led by the monks. All the monks come from Thailand, and speak English. Please feel free to approach them with any questions regarding meditation or Buddhism. It is not necessary to observe any formality with them. However one of their 227 precepts is not to touch women, so please be careful not to brush past them or touch them in conversation.

Bowing

A fundamental concept in Buddhism is the Triple Gem, comprised of the Buddha, the Dhamma and the Sangha. The Buddha is the enlightened one who passed on his knowledge to us. The Dhamma is his teaching, and also means “truth”. The Sangha is the congregation of monks. Buddhists bow three times to the Buddha image and also to the monks to show respect for the Triple Gem.

On being shown how to bow, you may feel uncomfortable at first, and feel you are not doing it the “right” way. Remember that everybody was inexperienced at some time, and that the monks are accustomed to people unsure of their traditions. Please feel free to ask staff for advice.

Some students may not feel comfortable bowing down during the retreat. If you prefer, you may simply hold your hands in prayer position and bow your head to show respect to the monks at the beginning and end of each meditation session.

Offering food to the monks

A long-held Buddhist tradition is to offer food to the monks. This gains the offeror great merit. When the monks sit down at the table you are welcome to take a plate of food from the kitchen to offer to the monks. Please ask the staff to show you how to do this.

Removing your shoes

DISA is a Thai Buddhist organization. The Thai tradition is to remove your shoes before entering any room. Please observe this tradition, particularly in the meditation halls. Don’t worry if you forget, as everyone does. Simply remove them and place them outside.