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Article by Polly Turner
(originally published on Snow Lion Website)
Recite one mantra;
move your thumb and forefinger
along the next bead
of the strand; then repeat.
The Tibetan Buddhist mala, or beaded rosary, aids the practitioner in counting mantra recitations while also helping one to focus concentration and awareness. As one works the mala's beads with one's fingers, recites the mantra and visualizes the deity, one is at once involving the body, speech and mind.
The basic instructions for using a mala are quite simple. As with nearly any other form of ritual in Tibetan Buddhism and Bön, however, many specifics may vary from tradition to tradition, even within a given school of Buddhism. Always consult with a knowledgeable person in your tradition about matters of ritual.
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The following information is provided by Gyuto Monastery. Why Have an Altar? A proper altar holds images or representations of the Buddha's enlightened body, speech and mind which serve as reminders of the goal of Buddhist practice; that is: to develop these qualities in oneself so as to be able to fully benefit all sentient beings.
The reason for setting up an altar is not for fame, for showing off wealth, or to increase pride, but rather it is to reduce one's mental afflictions and to seek the ability to help all sentient beings. |
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The books listed here can be purchased at your local bookseller or ordered from one of the major online bookstores, like Snow Lion Publications. |
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Prayer of Refuge and Mind Generation
I go for refuge, until I am enlightened.
To the Buddhas, the Dharma and the Sangha.
From the virtuous merit that I collect by practicing giving and other perfections,
May I attain the state of Buddha to be able to benefit all sentient beings. (3x)
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 The Gyuto monks are frequently asked questions about Tibetan Buddhist practice and etiquette. In order to provide a library of helpful information we are compiling this list of frequently asked questions and answers from the monks.
You should note that the different Tibetan Buddhist schools, the different colleges within a school and even different lamas within a college may answer these questions in different ways. If you have a qualified teacher you should consult with him or her on each topic.
Here are some frequently asked questions: |
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Gyuto Vajrayana Center