Buddhists/Blessings

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Expert: - 1/14/2008


Question
Good Morning,

I was in Thailand last week and I was offered a water blessing by a monk which I accepted. Now I'm questioning whether I should have as I am not a buddhist and wish to respect and learn of all religions. I am still wearing the white thread he gave me as a reminder of him and his kindness. Was I wrong to accept and is this an afront to buddhists?

Answer
Hi Helen,

Apology for the delayed reply as I couldn't log-in the site.  Buddhism is a very accommodating and peaceful "religion".  It is about how to live in peace with oneself and with the world.  Everyone is welcome to participate in Buddhist rites and rituals, irrespective of his or her belief.  So long as the person is willing to participate, Buddhists will welcome him or her.  No need to be Buddhist to be part of the community for peace and contentment.  You have showered your respect by joining in the blessing.  In return, you should feel happy and blessed!  As for the thread, (usually it is orange in colour), if you decide to discard in due course, just bury it in the flower pot, or in the ground.

Smile from justinchoo :-)

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Justin Choo

Expertise

When in doubt seek it out. All your questions will be answered, and you may not have to agree with the answers. Such is the beauty of Buddhism. You are free to decide. I follow the Theravada tradition, and have been studying Buddhism for more than 40 years. Please view my profile for more details. I have answered more than 1500 questions since joining this category. You may like to give me the honor to answer your question.

Experience

I was brought up in the 50's as a Buddhist. For the past 40 years I have read numerous books on Buddhism and listened to numerous talks on Buddhism by well-respected and learned monks and lay teachers. I conduct Buddhist classes for parents of Sunday School children in a Theravada Buddhist Temple. My teacher was the late Chief Reverend, The Ven. K Sri Dhammananda of The Brickfields Buddhist Mahavihara, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. You can view the relevent website in memory of my revered late teacher @ http://www.ksridhammananda.com

Organizations
I am a life member of the Buddhist Missionary Society Malaysia.

Publications
YOU ARE INVITED TO VISIT MY BLOG @ http://lifeislikethat999.blogspot.com/ Published a book called "The Rainbow And The Treasure". It is a compilation of extracts from various sources to introduce Buddhism to beginners. (Currently out of print)

Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Commerce And Administration, Victoria University Of Wellington, NZ.(1974)

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