WHEN MAKING OBEISANCE TO BUDDHA, THE BODY MUST BE UPRIGHT DURING THE FIRST PROSTRATION

Master Jun Hong Lu’s
Public Talk
Brisbane, Australia
16 June 2018

WHEN MAKING OBEISANCE TO BUDDHA, THE BODY MUST BE UPRIGHT DURING THE FIRST PROSTRATION

Question: We noticed there are disciples, despite being physically fit, guiding new Buddhist friends to perform prostrations to Bodhisattvas in the following way: the 

buttocks are seated on the back of the lower legs; with only the hands, upper body and head performing the regular motions of a prostration. May I know if this is the proper way?

Answer: That should be fine. However, when performing your first prostration, it is best for your body to be upright and to refrain from sitting on the back of your legs just yet. From the second prostration onward, you may sit if you feel uncomfortable or tired. Beginning your prostrations in such a relaxed manner may not be appropriate as it is disrespectful to Bodhisattvas. To reiterate, when you first start to perform the gesture, your body must be upright, and you should not assume a sitting position.

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