Although changes from the format will occur depending on the week and the occasion, most of the items listed below will be incorporated in all of the Sunday Services.
Sorai (Gassho)
Gassho is the gesture of placing the hands together in front of the chest, and is the highest form of respect.
Chanting of Shoshinge
At our temple, the Shoshinge, a poem composed by Shinran Shonin, the founder of our tradition is normally read. On other occasions, the Tambutsuge, a poem which is included in one of the sutras, is read. Sutras are records of the Buddha's sermons, of which there are thousands extant. (Shoshinge as a PDF file)
Since these chants are read in Chinese texts with Japanese pronunciation, they are not chanted only for comprehension. Also, it is a symbolic gesture of listing to the Dharma and considered a form of meditation. The Jodo Shinshu tradition is unique in that all congregants, not only the ministers, are encouraged to chant together. Through participation in the chanting, the full experience of the Buddhist service is realized.
Incense Offering
A symbolic cleansing of the mind and body before receiving the Dharma. It is not a purification rite. The burning of incense symbolized the transcending of selfishness or ego to become one with all others.
Sorai (Gassho)
Three Treasures
Taking refuge in the Three Treasures (Buddha, Dharma and Sangha) is the universal affirmation of all Buddha's, and it can be found in all Buddhist traditions. The Three Treasures are initially sung in Pali, the ancient language of India and then recited in English to elaborate on the Pali verses.
Dharma Talk
The Service is normally followed by a Dharma Talk by the minister. This is usually in English and may be also in Japanese on certain occasions.
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