DO NOT USE OIL LAMP ON THE ALTAR TO BURN LITTLE HOUSES

Wenda20161127A 38:44
(Master Jun Hong Lu's call-in radio program)

Caller: Master Lu, I heard from a Buddhist practitioner that we are not allowed to use the oil lamp on the altar to burn Little Houses. We have to use a lighter instead. Is this true?

Master Jun Hong Lu: Yes, it's true. Generally, you use a lighter or match sticks but not the oil lamp offered to the Bodhisattva.

Caller: I was under the impression that we are supposed to light the Little Houses using the oil lamp.

Master Jun Hong Lu: No, you cannot do that.

Caller: I see. Do you mean after we light up the oil lamp and offer the incense, then we use the lighter to burn Little Houses?

Master Jun Hong Lu: Exactly. Oil lamp symbolizes Bodhisattva's light. Can you use it on things meant for spirits? Little Houses are meant for spirits from the underworld, and using Bodhisattva's light for the purpose is forbidden.

Caller: I realise my mistake now and will not do that again.

[Afternote: Update from 2OR Secretariat (28/11/2016 at 17:41hrs):
Regarding burning Little Houses, we have sought clarification from Master Jun Hong Lu and was advised that we could use Bodhisattva's lamp, match sticks or a lighter to light the Little Houses. However, it is advisable to use match sticks or a lighter and avoid using the oil lamp.]

Translated by Oriental Radio Practice Centre (Singapore)
Proofread by 2OR Secretariat