自在寺 · At Ease Temple
Circumambulation: walking clockwise around the Buddha
What it is
Circumambulation (繞佛, raofo) is walking slowly around a Buddha image, a stupa or a shrine hall as a practice. It is done clockwise, keeping the Buddha on your right, so it is also called "circling to the right". The sutras often tell of disciples who greet the Buddha by circling him to the right three times, as a sign of respect.
Why clockwise
In ancient India, walking clockwise around a person or a place you honour was a gesture of respect, and Buddhism kept the custom. In Chinese temples today, during daily chanting and ceremonies, the assembly often circles the hall while reciting the Buddha's name.
How to keep the mind on it
- Walk slowly, in step with the person ahead. There is no hurry.
- Rest your attention on your feet: lifting, moving, placing, knowing each step.
- You can also silently recite a Buddha's or bodhisattva's name, such as "Namo Guanshiyin Pusa" (homage to Guanyin Bodhisattva).
- When the mind wanders, gently bring it back to your steps, without blaming yourself.
At At Ease Temple
The Circling Path at At Ease Temple goes around the Guanyin statue. Press and hold "Hold to circle" and your novice walks clockwise with the statue on the right; let go and he stops. Each round takes about twenty seconds, the screen shows which round you are on, and after three rounds you can choose a vow card. If holding is hard for your hands, turn on "Auto".