FAQ
What is the significance of a dharma name?
In Won Buddhism, receiving a dharma name signifies your rebirth as a sincere practitioner. Ministers contemplate and meditate to find the right name for you, hoping you will embody the meaning of your name throughout your practice. Through the naming ceremony, your promise and commitment to your practice is blessed by the community. Who is eligible to receive a dharma name? If you have been consistently attending our weekly meditation services, even zoom meetings and are making regular donations of time and financial support to the temple, you are invited to request receiving a dharma name.
What happens after receiving a dharma name?
Upon accepting your dharma name, you enter the path of six dharma stages. At the first stage, you will receive The 10 Precepts for beginners. You may meet one-on-one with the ministers to ask questions and receive supportive guidance for your spiritual development. Also, all dharma name holders become members of a ‘Kyo-hwa-dan’. This is a small group that meets from time to time to share how their dharma practice is changing and supporting their lives at monthly gatherings as well as a yearly retreat.
Does this mean I can only practice Won Buddhist teachings?
You can belong to any church or tradition while practicing Won Buddhism as a dharma name holder. We encourage you to stay connected with your spiritual roots and stay open-minded to learn from different traditions. The dharma study may deepen your understanding and appreciation of your original tradition.
Dharma Name holders four dutiful practices
1. Consistent practice: please attend dharma service consistently. When you show up consistently, Kyo-mu-nims (ministers) see how your practice grows and what struggles you may have.
2. Gratitude rice: Traditionally, one spoonful of rice was saved each time a meal was cooked. The saved rice was offered to the temple in gratitude and it was used in supporting the temple and reaching out to the public. This is Dana (generosity) practice; it is not a tithe, but your voluntary regular pledge. Please consider your regular donation to represent this ‘gratitude rice’.
3. Morning and evening prayer: This is a prayer practice; start the day and close the day in prayer. For a moment you may stand still, settle your spirit and offer gratitude for the day.
4. Guiding family & friends to the temple: If you find that your practice is helpful for your life and spiritual development, your heart will be willing to share and invite your beloved ones to the temple.
Member’s privileges
1. You will become a Kyo-hwa-dan member. Through monthly gatherings and annual retreat, you will form a close bond with other core members, supporting each other in dharma practice.
2. The Won Buddhist community anywhere in the world welcomes you as family. ( 20% Discounts at the Won Dharma Retreat Center )
3. You will have more opportunities for training, study, and dharma connections with many teachers.
4. As a lay member or lay teacher, you will be honored for all time. When your practice reaches a certain level (dharma stage 4) your parents will be honored.
