Religious Rites

Picture: Temple in Buriram Province (Isaan).



‘Religious symbols aid devocation’

Although religious rites, rituals and ceremonies are not favoured by intellectuals, such practices are nevertheless important for developing and maintaining the devotional aspects of a religion and for creating a sense of inspiration among the masses. For many people, cultivating devotion is the first important step towards the experience of a religion. If there is no devotional and cultural aspects attached to Buddhism, people may be drawn to some other kind of beliefs or practices, even though they are aware that such practices are steeped in superstition or blind faith.

It is important for religions to have some harmless rituals and reasonable practices for people to express their devotion and spiritual feelings. Many of the Buddhist ceremonies help to cultivate good habits and positive emotions amongst the followers who consequently become more tolerant, considerate and cultured people. When performed with understanding and earnestness, these traditional practices tend to strengthen one’s belief as against a mere intellectual approach. Buddhism without any devotion would be rather cold, detached and academic.

Source: Excerpts from ‘The Buddhist Way’, By. Dr K. Sri Dhammananda
Buddhist Missionary Society, Malaysia.