We would like to report that we held our sutra copying event in October.
Shokoji Temple holds sutra copying sessions every month, and this time the head priest spoke about "why we continue to hold sutra copying sessions."
During the sutra copying session, participants chant the Nembutsu and copy sutras, including the Heart Sutra, character by character, providing an opportunity to calm their minds and reflect on themselves.
While it is possible to tidy up our mind and body once a month, it is quite difficult for us to maintain that state of mind for a long time. In Buddhism, this state of being is called "bonbu."
The important thing here is to continue self-reflection on a regular basis.
It is said that even athletes and geniuses around the world lose their form if they take a few days off from their daily training.
Of course, it is difficult to "continue" training and introspection.
However, I find the teaching that we should not lament or blame ourselves for not being able to keep our spirits up, but rather accept that this is the way we are, and continue to reflect on ourselves while chanting the Nembutsu, very comforting.
After the sermon, the head priest recited a sutra, and at the end we all chanted the Nembutsu together.
Everyone seemed to be able to calm down and concentrate.
The next event will be held on Sunday, November 5th. We will provide you with more information as the date gets closer.
There is no need to apply in advance, so please feel free to join us on the day. (Please come 5 minutes before the event and, as a general rule, please refrain from entering or leaving during the event.)
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