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:

• What is a mantra?
  A mantra is a short prayer in Sanskrit that generally recites the names of the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas it is dedicated to.
  
  
• What is the mantra of Tara?
  OM TA RE TU TA RE TU RE SO HA
  It is called the ten-syllable mantra.
  
  
  
• Can I recite a mantra if I have not been to a teaching or empowerment for that mantra?
  Anybody can recite the most common mantras but some of the Tantric Deity's (Yidam) mantras require an empowerment. If you are not sure you need to ask about each specific mantra.
  
  
• What is a puja?
  A puja is a ritual activity.
  
  
• Why are there different pujas?
  Because each different puja is for different purposes in our lives.
  There are pujas for meditation practice, purification, removing obstacles, long life, death, illness, business, and so on.
  
  
• Can I get a puja for the death of a loved one, to overcome illness, to welcome a new baby, to bless a house or for other purposes?
  Yes, Buddha taught us pujas for everything that we need in this life and also future lives.
  Buddha himself experienced and practiced many different rituals or pujas in his life.
  
  
• How much does it cost to have a puja performed?
  There is no limit to the amount of a donation that can be made. It depends on one’s financial ability and how much you want to make as an offering toward the pujas.
  Some pujas are complicated and require a lot of materials and a great deal of time to perform.
  
  
• How do I know which puja I need to do for myself and my family?
  If you know your problems then ask a Lama or monk and discuss your needs. Most of the time a Lama or monk will advise you on what puja to perform for your needs.
  
  
• How do I greet a Rinpoche or a Lama?
  Take a Khata or a white scarf with you to meet a high lama or Rinpoche then say TASHI DELEK. This means Auspicious and Good Health. Whenever you see a high Lama or Rinpoche, you humbly bow down your head and place both hands together as a prostration gesture. Most of the Tibetan Lamas don't shake hands but rather they raise their right hand as a half prostration when they greet you.
  
  
• How do I greet a monk?
  Say “Tashi Delek” and shake hands.
  
  
• What does "Ven." mean?
  Ven. is shorthand for Venerable monk or nun
  
  
• What does "Gen" mean?
  Gen means: master, teacher or senior. It is a term of respect for a monk or a nun.
  
  
• What is a Khata?
  Tibetans and Mongolians use Khatas. It should be white and long. White represents purity and it is long to represent long life. Some can be yellow to represent gold or something precious.
  
  
• When and how do I use a Khata?
  You can use a Khata anytime, anywhere with anyone as a greeting. Is it particularly used on special occasions whether spiritual or business.
  
  
• How do I do a prostration?
  There are three different ways to do prostration in the Tibetan tradition.
  
  Simple prostration:  you put your both hands together and hold them near your heart.
  Half prostration: put both hands together and touch them first on your crown, then on your throat then heart and then kneel down and touch your forehead to the ground. Your hands and knees must also touch the ground.
  That is one set of prostrations. Repeat three times. Never do a single prostration.
  
  Full prostration:  place your hands together and touch your crown, throat and heart then stretch your entire body on the ground and stretch both of your hands as far as possible away from your head. Then rise up quickly and repeat.
  That is one set of prostrations. Repeat three times. Never do a single prostration.
  
  
• Gompa etiquette?
  You are not allowed to wear your shoes in a Buddhist Temple or Monastery. Leave your shoes at the front door.
  
  
• How do I use a mala?
  A mala is a string of prayer beads. Some have 108 and some 111 beads. You use a mala to count the recitation of mantras or the names of the Buddhas.
  
  
• What offerings should I bring?
  When you visit a temple you should bring fresh flowers, fruit or candles for offerings to the Buddhas.
  
  
• Do I need an appointment?
  It is best to make an appointment.
  
  
• Can I attend all events?
  Generally yes. However some events particular those associated with the tantra require prerequisites or commitments. It is a good idea before you attend any event find out.
  
  
• How much does it cost to attend events at the Gyuto Varjrayana Center?
  Events at most Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries and Nunneries are free. Some require that you pay a small donation to attend the teachings.
  Events at the Gyuto Center in San Jose are free of charge