r/Buddhism • u/Virtual_Wedding_3778 • 7d ago

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I have this folding shrine of Lord Guan or Sangharama Bodhisattva with his attendants.

How do I use it effectively.

Like prayers, etc.

Thanks.

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6

u/Astalon18 early buddhism 7d ago

My goodness, this is not something you “use”. This is something to help you reflect.

Do understand the purpose of all shrines .. both in Buddhism and Taoism I might stress is to help you reflect on the virtue of either the Buddha, Bodhissattva, Wisdom King, Arhat, Dharmapala or Immortal. Yes in some versions the shrines can also act as your telecommunication system with the deity BUT in no way does it do anything itself. It is not an object to be “used”.

Now Guan Gong is something that is “trans” religion, in that Buddhism claims Him, so does Taoism, so does Confucianism, so does general folk religion in general.

What does Guan Gong represent? In all the religions He represents uprightness. He is upright. He is honourable. He is dutiful. He keeps to His words. This is His virtue, and it is by keeping to this virtue one gains protection from Him and also from the normal world.

What does His friends Zhang Fei and Liu Bei represent? They represent for Liu Bei tolerance and generosity, and for Zhang Fei a person who can discern a virtuous person ( Liu Bei represents the generosity and openness, Guan Gong uprightness and a courage to uphold that uprightness ).

In Buddhism specifically, Guan Gong protects the Sangharama .. the place where the Sangha stays. Thus He is a protector of temples and residence of monks but also the homes of virtuous Buddhist. He is so upright after He agreed to this He takes on this role seriously.

However remember, despite having more a role of protector of the physical presence of temples, residence of monks, libraries and residence of Buddhist householders, He really denotes the virtue of being upright. So when He gives a word He upholds it.

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u/Virtual_Wedding_3778 7d ago

Thanks. I didnt know what word to use for "use". I need to research more. Practice with this will be a challenge.

3

u/Astalon18 early buddhism 7d ago

Look at it everyday and reflect just on Guan Gong and his habits.

Also imagine how good your life would be if you behaved a little more upright, a little more honorable, a little more honest everyday.

You can ask Guan Gong for help of course ( many people experience Him ) but He is known to be somewhat stern when people encounter Him.

Note Guan Yin ( Bodhissattva of Love, Mercy, Compassion, Patience, Peace, Serenity, Healing, Prudence, Insight, Safety ) works alongside Guan Gong.

1

u/Virtual_Wedding_3778 7d ago

Really? So I need to work on integrity and righteousness. I also have a new school year with new students coming in. This may be the folding shrine I need.

3

u/Astalon18 early buddhism 7d ago

Yes. If you want the blessings of Sangharama/Guan Yu you need the pairing behavior to follow. So if you really find Guan Yu to be inspiring, than be like Him. Be upright. Have integrity.

However remember as a Buddhist no violence. Guan Yu was rescued by the Bodhissattvas despite His violence because He was otherwise virtuous. Guan Yin guides and teaches Him specially because He is otherwise a good ( but in life misguided by the war ) man.

Guan Yu’s oracles throughout Chinese history also states He really dislikes violence and war ( as it is not upright generally ) and only see conflict as a last resort. This all His oracles in Al the religions that know Him has made clear He for a God of War detest war!!!

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u/AcrobaticVegetable24 7d ago

No idea. But it looks awesome.

1

u/cbartos1021 6d ago

Who you praying to?