5 Buddhist Rituals Around the World
Buddhism can be traced back over two thousand years, spreading across Asia and beyond. Its core teachings focus on compassion and awakening, and people express these beliefs in different ways.
Buddhism offers diverse traditions, according to Tricycle. Its rituals provide a way to train the mind. Read ahead to discover more about these traditions.
Circumambulation
Circumambulation involves mindfully walking clockwise around a stupa or a religious structure, according to a blog on Lama Yeshe Wisdom Archive. The practice is a common form of devotion in Buddhism. This spiritual act may support mindfulness.
Prayer Wheels
In Tibetan Buddhism, prayer wheels are used as a tool for intention, as a blog from the Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art explains. These cylindrical containers, often made of metal or wood, contain written mantras. Spinning the wheel is believed to release mantras into the world and spread blessings. This practice emphasizes intention and the repetition of mantras.
Offering Incense
In Bhutan, incense is burned as a sacred offering, the BBC reports. For centuries, Bhutanese Buddhists have burned incense as part of daily rituals, with incense believed to promote healing, peace of mind, and happiness. They offer the fragrant smoke to the gods, to purify sacred spaces, and to clear away negative energy. You can bring this practice into your own life by lighting incense at home.
Chanting Mantras
Buddhists use chanting mantras as a method to protect the mind and connect with the divine, as the Harvard Divinity Bulletin explains. Repeating words, syllables, or phrases helps cleanse emotional energy. Chanting is believed to benefit both the chanter and all living beings. You can bring mantras into your practice by choosing a meaningful phrase and repeating it. Let sound turn ordinary moments into opportunities for spiritual connection.
Mindful Tea Rituals
In Zen traditions, mindfulness is practiced through tea ceremonies, according to a blog on Shambhala Publications. The ceremonies involve precise preparations and rituals as a way to cultivate focus and attention. They are also spiritual and encourage harmony and inner peace for those taking part. You can try this ritual at home by slowing down and savoring each sip of tea.
