Frequently asked questions

• What are the common Buddhist items in the Shingon Buddhism?

  • Buddha statues (such as Dainichi Nyorai, Fudo Myo-o, Kannon, etc.)
  • Prayer beads (108 beads or 1080 beads, made of materials like Bodhi seeds, rosewood, etc.)
  • Vajra (symbolizing wisdom, commonly seen in single, triple, or five-pronged versions)
  • Bowl (Bell) (used during chanting or rituals to strike)
  • Mandala (such as the Womb World Mandala, Diamond World Mandala)
  • Goma tools (used in fire offerings, such as goma wood and fire stoves)
  • Incense burner, offerings (tools for offering to Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, like incense, lamps, water, etc.)

• What should you pay attention to when purchasing a Shingon Buddha statue?

  Make sure the statue matches the Shingon sect’s design, such as the hand gestures (mudras) of Dainichi Nyorai, which typically include the Wisdom Fist (Chinmudra). For materials, you can choose wood carvings, bronze statues, or stone carvings, depending on personal preference and budget. Before worshipping, you can invite a master to perform an opening ceremony (ritual) or empower it with mantras by yourself.

• How to choose prayer beads?

  The Shingon sect commonly uses prayer beads with 108 or 1080 beads. Materials can include star and moon Bodhi, ebony, rosewood, crystal, etc., depending on personal practice needs. If practicing with a specific deity, you can select beads associated with that deity, for example, using obsidian beads for practicing Fudo Myo-o.

• What should be considered when purchasing a Vajra?

  • Tokkosho: Symbolizes the subjugation of afflictions.
  • Sankosho (Three Pronged) : Represents the unity of the Three Secrets (Body, Speech, and Mind).
  • Gokosho (Five Pronged): Symbolizes the Five Wisdoms, a higher level.

  When purchasing, pay attention to materials like brass, pure copper, or gold-silver plating, and ensure the Vajra is kept clean during use.

• What are the guidelines for offering incense and lamps?

  For incense offerings, it’s recommended to use natural sandalwood or agarwood, avoiding chemical-based fragrances. For lamp offerings, common choices are ghee lamps, lotus lamps, or electric lamps. A bright light symbolizes wisdom.

• How to arrange the Shingon main deity at home?

  Place Dainichi Nyorai or the deity you are practicing (such as Fudo Myo-o or Kannon) at the center of the altar. On the offering table, you can place a mandala, prayer beads, vajra, incense offerings, and lamps. Recite mantras in the morning and evening, and maintain a clean and solemn environment.

• How should Shingon Buddhism practitioners maintain their Buddhist items?

  • Buddha statues: Regularly wipe them to avoid dust accumulation.
  • Prayer beads: Avoid washing with water. Regularly wipe with a dry cloth and empower them with mantras.
  • Vajra: After use, place it on the offering table. Avoid placing it randomly or stepping on it.

• Do Fugeninn products need to be blessed when purchased?

  Strictly speaking, blessing is not necessary. The Shingon Buddhism emphasizes empowering items through mantra recitation. If you want the items to have more spiritual energy, you may empower them yourself using the Light Mantra or the Heart Mantra of Dainichi Nyorai. Alternatively, Fugeninn can arrange for a master to perform the blessing for a pre-determined fee.

• How should beginners use Shingon Buddhist items?

  • Prayer beads: Use them to recite mantras, such as the Mantra of Light or Fudo Myo-o mantra.
  • Vajra: Visualize subduing afflictions or empowering yourself.
  • Mandala: Visualize the blessings of the main deity to aid in practice.
  • Incense offerings: Light incense daily to cultivate a respectful heart.

• How to avoid purchasing low-quality Buddhist items?

  Choose a reputable Shingon Buddhism supply store, such as Fugeninn and avoid buying from unknown sources. Pay attention to the materials and craftsmanship, and avoid items made from low-quality plastics or those with a chemical smell. Fugeninn has experienced practitioners and masters to recommend which items are suitable for you.

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