Spiritual belief is a part of life in Vietnam. So, if you can abide by the custom when visiting a sacred place, it would be a lot appreciative.
To make your next visit to a pagoda less confusing, here are the do’s and don’ts.
1. Dress appropriately
In such a restful place, you should dress covering the shoulders, lower neck, and knees. It’s also better to put on clean clothes to show respect to the Buddha.
2. Remove your hat
Don’t wear a hat and sunglasses when entering the hall. You can wear these when you are outside.
3. Burn incense
It’s not a must to burn incents as many pagodas don’t encourage this activity to reduce smoke in the interior. If you want to offer the incense, burn one piece and stick it into the censer.
4. Pray and wish
You can make the wish to the largest god, usually located in the middle of the central hall. Otherwise, just chant “namo’mitābhāya” while making a kowtow and pray for peace to everyone.
5. Keep silent
It’s not appropriate to make noise, talk loudly, or laugh in a religious site. You can chat in a medium tone. If you come with the children, try to keep them quiet and well-behaved in the sacred place. Don’t let the kids touch or run around the place of decency.
6. Offer to the temple
It’s a common thing to offer cash to a religious place. The money is for maintaining and people who take care of the pagoda. You can donate by putting money into the box placed around the site.
7. Take the good fortune
You can ask to have a piece of food or fruit worshipping for the gods. Those are good fortune you can take home as a lucky gift. You can observe to confirm if the goods are offered to visitors.
8. Don’t bring meat
It’s forbidden to eat meat in any sacred place. If there is a canteen where you can have food, just have vegetarian meals or disrespect the surroundings.
9. No photo inside
Many pagodas forbid taking pictures in the hall. If photos are allowed, you can stand next to, not in front of the statues. Also, do not pose inappropriately.
Visiting a pagoda is a thing you should not miss when living in Vietnam. The tranquility in a worship place surely promises a healing feeling. So, if you have a chance to come to such a place, follow the tips above