Hi Patrick,
Similarly to Ankai, I also wanted all brand new everything when I began seriously practicing: brand new robes, bells, mokugyo, clappers, statues of Buddha and Kannon, a fancy altar, zafu, zabuton, books, materials, etc.
As I searched and searched for these items (and I searched for years) I realized these items weren’t the point. I could practice without any of these items. I could practice with a printer printout of the Buddha taped to my wall. I could practice sitting on a pillow I already owned. I spent so much time, effort, and money thinking that I needed to have these things in order to be a “good Buddhist ” when I already had everything I needed: dedication to the Three Treasures, good intentions in following the Precepts to the best of my abilities, and upholding the Bodhisattva Vows. Nothing more, nothing less.
I have been graciously gifted many items that I use/have used to which I am beyond grateful and thankful for. Purchasing these items brand new can be very expensive, especially if you want quality items that will last a long time. It really all depends on what your budget is. You could get a robe from Ali Express or Amazon for $20 that will most likely need to be replaced within a year or two, or you could invest in a custom made robe that will last a very long time. Having said that, there are a lot of folks, like myself, who cannot afford a custom made robe.
My point is to work with what you have. If you are able to upgrade items, do it slowly. Consider your budget but also the quality of the item. I hope this helps!
Gasshō,
On
Similarly to Ankai, I also wanted all brand new everything when I began seriously practicing: brand new robes, bells, mokugyo, clappers, statues of Buddha and Kannon, a fancy altar, zafu, zabuton, books, materials, etc.
As I searched and searched for these items (and I searched for years) I realized these items weren’t the point. I could practice without any of these items. I could practice with a printer printout of the Buddha taped to my wall. I could practice sitting on a pillow I already owned. I spent so much time, effort, and money thinking that I needed to have these things in order to be a “good Buddhist ” when I already had everything I needed: dedication to the Three Treasures, good intentions in following the Precepts to the best of my abilities, and upholding the Bodhisattva Vows. Nothing more, nothing less.
I have been graciously gifted many items that I use/have used to which I am beyond grateful and thankful for. Purchasing these items brand new can be very expensive, especially if you want quality items that will last a long time. It really all depends on what your budget is. You could get a robe from Ali Express or Amazon for $20 that will most likely need to be replaced within a year or two, or you could invest in a custom made robe that will last a very long time. Having said that, there are a lot of folks, like myself, who cannot afford a custom made robe.
My point is to work with what you have. If you are able to upgrade items, do it slowly. Consider your budget but also the quality of the item. I hope this helps!
Gasshō,
On
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