Devotional Practices

Buddhist Devotional Practices

Puja

• Puja is the act of showing reverence to a god, a spirit, or another aspect of the divine through invocations, prayers, songs, and rituals. It’s an essential part of Buddhist observance.
• Many Buddhists show their devotion through Puja at a shrine in their own homes or at a temple.

Bowing

• Bowing, or prostration, is a common practise in Buddhism, showing respect to the Three Jewels: the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha.
• This practise is often carried out three times, reflecting reverence to each of these ‘refuges’.

Chanting and Recitation

• Chanting or reciting texts and mantras is another way Buddhists express devotion. It is seen as a way to connect with the teachings of Buddhism, as well as way to focus the mind.
• Chants can be in Pali, Sanskrit or the local language and often taken from the Tripitaka, Buddhist scriptures.

Making Merit

• Buddhists believe in making merit, or good karma, through actions such as donating to charity, practising meditation or observing the precepts.
• These actions are seen as a way of clearing negative karma and progressing towards enlightenment.

Observance of the Precepts

• Following the Five Precepts (or Ten Precepts for monastics) is a key part of Buddhist devotion.
• They include commitments not to take life, not to take what is not given (no stealing), abstaining from sexual misconduct, falsehood, and intoxicating substances.
• This guides the Buddhist towards a life of compassion, self-discipline and mindfulness.