![]() ![]() Ever since then I’ve had a much deeper appreciation for the spiritual factors inherently in accepting energy in the form of food into myself, with a sense of gratitude, austerity and togetherness with all beings. Hwangak Jikji monastery, and I had never before experienced such a religious way of eating. ![]() The first time that I experienced a balu-gongyang ritual-meal in a Korean temple was a spiritual revelation. This way-of-eating has, over many centuries, become an integral feature of the seon practices of the Jogye Order, and these days it is an important component of the templestay programs operated at many of the great monasteries across this nation. Monks themselves do not eat this way at every meal, as some are taken more informally, but generally practice it in ceremonial situations and during seasonal intensive meditation sessions. “Balu-gongyang” is the name for the traditional and formal communal meal practice unique to Korean Buddhist temples, using four bowls of different sizes and not wasting even a speck of food. Further, our daily meals are recurring opportunities for expanding and deepening our awareness, as a type of meditation in themselves. What one eats and how one eats it are very significant, and ought to be approached with a conscious seriousness and sincerity. Korea Timesīuddhists have always regarded eating as a highly important religious act, nourishing the body properly so that development of the mind might continue to progress smoothly. A monk wraps up ``balu'' bowls with a gray cloth. ![]()
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