RLG206H5 Chapter Notes - Chapter Readings 1 to 9: Dharma, Himalayas, Walpola Rahula
Document Summary
Practice of offering to ones guru; guru occupies prime importance because he embodies the buddha. In tibet guru is often added as 4th refuge. People usually offer their gurus a mandala means circle. Visualize guru is on mount meru sitting on lions throne but actually offer flowers. Theravada buddhism believes buddha is not an active protector; does not interfere in mundane concerns of people. Spirits called nat in myanmar and phi in thailand and laos. Certain spirits may be offered animal sacrifices or whiskey while buddha will receive only cooked food and flowers. Rocket festival (bun bangfai) held in laos and northern thailand. Invocation of god of heaven to ensure abundance of harvest. Main role of monks is to make the most powerful rockets they have about. 2 day festival no women participate; commemorates buddha"s birth, death and enlightenment. Rockets are launched; the one to go farthest gets prize of 200-300 kip kept at the monastery.
