The beginning of a new year signifies a new beginning, an end to the old, and a chance for a fresh start.
Are you ready to welcome the brand new lunar year in a week’s time? Well, we have what you need – a compilation of Master Lu’s discourses on this very important event in the Chinese calendar. Dive into the pack and you are set for a safe and fortunate year ahead!
Some interesting facts you will find in this pack:
• The significance of Chinese New Year’s Eve – why is it important and what to do and what not to do?
• Why is the first day of Lunar New Year such an important day? Master Lu once said, “It is a day when all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas from different Buddha Worlds and Pure Lands will come to observe the Saha world. Hence, on this day, performing good deeds will be a hundred times more efficacious than usual!”
• It is best to stay up all night for the arrival of Chinese New Year because if you don’t “the old year has not gone, and the new year has not come” for you.
• The well-wishes that you receive can help you eliminate a lot of the minor karmic obstacles.
• If you receive a red packet during Chinese New Year, it symbolises that you will always have something to gain the whole year.
• You can Increase your wealth luck by wiping your incense burner or leveling the ashes in it regularly.
and many more…
We hope this compilation of discourses will help you kick off the year of the Rabbit to bring you good health and great wisdom!
< BODHISATTVA’S DISCOURSES FOR CNY >
MERITORIOUS DEEDS PERFORMED ON THE FIRST DAY OF LUNAR NEW YEAR ARE A HUNDRED TIMES MORE EFFICACIOUS THAN USUAL
Moments before the clock struck midnight to herald the first day of Chinese New Year,
the Heavenly Dharma Protectors,
the Buddha,
Guan Yin Bodhisattva,
Nanjing Bodhisattva,
12 Tai Sui Bodhisattvas,
Guan Di Bodhisattva,
Victorious Battle Buddha,
Amitabha Buddha,
Great Strength Bodhisattva (Da Shi Zhi Pusa),
Maitreya Buddha (Mi Le Fo),
Jigong Living Buddha,
Samantabhadra Bodhisattva (Pu Xian Pusa),
Manjushri Bodhisattva (Wen Shu Pusa),
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (Di Zhang Wang Pusa),
the Four Great Vajras (Si Da Jin Gang), and
the 88 Buddhas in the Eighty-Eight Great Buddhas Repentance
arrived at the front of the Southern Heavenly Gate (Nantian Gate) to observe the current state of affairs of sentient beings in the Saha world.
Tens of thousands of golden dragons, phoenixes, divine beasts, and golden tortoises were in front of the Southern Heavenly Gate, welcoming the arrival of all the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.
Guan Yin Bodhisattva told all disciples that it is only on the first day of Lunar New Year that all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas from different Buddha Worlds and Pure Lands will come to the Southern Heavenly Gate to observe the Saha world with their heavenly eyes.
On this day, performing life liberation, reciting sutras, undertaking meritorious deeds, making offerings to Buddhas, and making vows will be a hundred times more efficacious than usual.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse (Question 360), 29 January 2020
< OFFERING OF FIRST INCENSE >
Q&A 96. OFFERING FIRST INCENSE AND PERFORMING RECITATION ON THE FIRST DAY OF CHINESE NEW YEAR
A: From the night of Chinese New Year’s Eve until the end of the first day of Chinese New Year, it is best to perform recitation as much as possible. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
The merits and virtues accumulated from the recitations during this period are multiplied. It is best to recite the Great Compassion Mantra, the Heart Sutra, and the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance.
On the night of Chinese New Year’s Eve, you can recite all the sutras and mantras that are included in Guan Yin Citta Dharma Door, including those contained in Little Houses, and those that are usually not recommended to be recited at night, such as the Heart Sutra, and the Amitabha Pure Land Rebirth Mantra.
If there is no Buddhist altar in your home, you can offer Heart Incense. But it will be hard to achieve the same effects as a real First Incense offering, and it is not recommended that you recite sutras and mantras throughout the night.
During the eve and the first day of Chinese New Year, it is vital to remember that it is the time we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new. We should remain happy and cheerful, spread kind words and good wishes, and perform recitations as often as possible.
It is best to stay up all night for the arrival of Chinese New Year. If you cannot wait and end up falling asleep before 12am, then “the old year has not gone, and the new year has not come” for you.
👨🏻🦳👵🏻 Therefore, it is recommended that you stay up late. The longer you stay up on that night, the longer the elders in your family would live.
💡💡 On Chinese New Year’s Eve, you can also switch on all the lights in your house to make it brighter.
It is best to avoid looking at yourself in the mirror too often on Chinese New Year’s Eve, and each time should be limited to less than 30 seconds.
🥣☕️ Avoid breaking any bowls or cups in your home, or tipping over an oil container and spilling oil.
🤫🤫 Refrain from speaking loudly or inappropriately, and avoid joining a crowd. Most importantly, you should not argue or fight with others.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Buddhism Your Questions Answered, Q&A 96
Q&A 96. Offering the First Incense and performing recitations on the first day of Chinese New Year
THE KEYS TO AN EFFICACIOUS PRAYER WHEN OFFERING FIRST INCENSE
Question: What is the key to an efficacious prayer when offering First Incense? Is it only efficacious when we make vows, perform recitation and virtuous deeds? For cases where gastritis is caused by foreign spirits, will our prayer to have it cured be efficacious? After all, the Bodhisattva does not intervene with the law of cause and effect. What is the prerequisite for our prayer to be answered when offering First Incense?
Answer: Sincerity can work wonders. Keep your mind empty, pray fervently and your prayer will be answered on the day itself.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse (Question 206), 4 February 2018
PRAYER WHEN OFFERING FIRST INCENSE ON CHINESE NEW YEAR’S EVE TO ENSURE THE WELLBEING OF YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY
Master Jun Hong Lu: When offering Fist Incense on Chinese New Year’s Eve, we should state, “May Guan Yin Bodhisattva bless my entire family with safety and auspiciousness”. It’s important to specify “the entire family” because by stating so, you are praying for everyone who is related to you one way or another.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse (Question 357), 16 January 2020
HOW TO ENHANCE THE EFFICACY OF OUR PRAYERS
Master Jun Hong Lu: Many do not know the proper rituals when praying to Bodhisattvas. After offering incense, they will kneel down, start crying and wailing. Please remember, should you have an important matter to pray for, after lighting up the incense, do not insert the incense in the censer immediately. Instead, hold it in your hands and with utmost sincerity, state your prayer, “Guan Yin Bodhisattva, please bless my child with good health”. Thereafter, insert the incense in the censer. When holding the incense, you are tapping into your heart to make a connection with Bodhisattva drawing on your original aspiration known as the Beginner’s Mind (初始心).
When offering the first incense of the day, with the incense in hands, the mind and Buddha become one, through which Bodhisattvas will be able to hear your inner voice. After stating that important prayer, insert the incense in the censer and perform prostration. This shall enhance the efficacy of your prayer.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Singapore Guan Yin Hall Consecration Discourse, 21 April 2016
CRITERIA FOR OFFERING LITTLE HOUSES ON THE NIGHT OF LUNAR NEW YEAR’S EVE
Question: Is it true that we can only offer Little Houses before 2am after offering First Incense on Chinese New Year’s Eve?
Answer: There must be a formal Buddhist altar to offer Little Houses on the night of Chinese New Year’s Eve, and you can only do so before 1am.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse (Question 89), 7 February 2016
INCENSE CAN BE OFFERED ROUND THE CLOCK ON THE NIGHT OF LUNAR NEW YEAR’S EVE REGARDLESS OF THE WEATHER
Question: In the event of a thunderstorm or rain without thunder during the period between midnight on Chinese New Year’s Eve and 5am on the first day of Chinese New Year, is it alright to offer First Incense and subsequent rounds of incense, recite the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance, the Heart Sutra and the Amitabha Pure Land Rebirth Mantra (Wang Sheng Zhou)?
Answer: It doesn’t matter even if the weather condition is bad when offering First Incense on the first day of Chinese New Year. As long as you have a Buddhist altar, you can continue to offer incense and perform recitation.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse (Question 89), 7 February 2016
Q&A 31. PAYING RESPECT TO BUDDHAS AND BODHISATTVAS ON THE FIRST DAY OF CHINESE NEW YEAR
Question: Master Lu, I have a question. On the first day of Chinese New Year, can I go to several temples to offer incense and make vows? All these temples have the statues or portraits of the Greatly Merciful and Greatly Compassionate Guan Yin Bodhisattva. I make the same vows at each temple. According to our customs, we always drop by several temples to pay our respect.
Answer:
- It is good to pay respect to Buddhas and Bodhisattvas at temples.
- It is good to pay respect at temples where Buddhas and Bodhisattvas visit, but it is not desirable to pay respect at temples where Buddhas and Bodhisattvas do not visit.
- It is best to go to the same temple regularly to pay your respect, and follow Guan Yin Bodhisattva’s instructions to practise Buddhism diligently.
- Most importantly, you should perform recitation, make vows, perform life liberation, as well as cultivate your mind and practise Buddhism diligently in your daily life. Only then will Guan Yin Bodhisattva protect and bless you.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Buddhism Your Questions Answered, Q&A 31
< LUNAR NEW YEAR ETIQUETTE >
BEST WISHES RECEIVED FROM OTHERS CAN HELP US ELIMINATE MANY MINOR KARMIC OBSTACLES
Caller: Master, some people are so kind that everyone gives them best wishes. What would be the effect from the power of such thoughts from others assuming this person receives blessings from 100 people?
Master Jun Hong Lu: If everyone gives him their best wishes, he will be able to eliminate a lot of minor karmic obstacles.
Caller: Are such blessings able to eliminate one’s karmic obstacles too?
Master Jun Hong Lu: During the Chinese New Year period, if everyone wishes him, “I wish you good health”, the person will really be healthy throughout the year. On the other hand, if 100 people curse at him, “You might as well die!”, won’t he suffer from ill health all year round?
Caller: In that case, Master, will you please wish me good health and be free from calamities and disasters? Your well wishes are powerful.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Okay. I wish you good health and may you be free from calamities and disasters.
Caller: Thank you, Master! Thank you, Guan Yin Bodhisattva!
Master Jun Hong Lu: However, my well wishes are conditional. I hope you will help others more, and live for all sentient beings and not just for yourself. Do you understand?
Caller: Yes, we must be selfless.
Source: Wenda20180930A 14:01, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
CHINESE NEW YEAR: THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT RED PACKETS
Caller: Hi Master, Lunar New Year is just around the corner. During this time, there will be occasions when our family members may receive gifts such as red packets from others. Master has often advised us to ‘think neither good nor evil’ (不思善不思恶). In this aspect, how should we regard such gifts?
Master Jun Hong Lu: That is not an issue because the amount in the red packet is insignificant, anyway.
Caller: Indeed, it’s not a large amount.
Master Jun Hong Lu: It’s only tens of dollars. This is one of the Chinese traditions to herald the arrival of a brand new year. In fact, by accepting a red packet, you are at the receiving end of others’ well wishes which will bring you endless streams of blessings. After all, a brand new year should be marked by a new beginning. Conceptually, if you receive something during this festivity, it symbolises that you will always have something to gain the whole year. After all, you will not turn rich with those tens or hundreds of dollars you receive, will you?
Caller: I don’t mean this. I was just wondering whether I should dish out a portion of the money to help perform life liberation on behalf of the giver?
Master Jun Hong Lu: That’s fine. If the person gifts hundreds of dollars and you spend a couple of hundred to release captive lives on his behalf, you are essentially accruing immeasurable merits!
Caller: Do we just report his name during the life liberation?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Yes.
Source: Wenda20150130 01:12:49, Master Jun Hong Lu’s radio call-in program
< SUTRA AND MANTRA TO RECITE DURING CHINESE NEW YEAR >
QUESTIONS REGARDING THE RECITATION OF THE EIGHTY-EIGHT BUDDHAS GREAT REPENTANCE ON THE EVE AND FIRST DAY OF CHINESE NEW YEAR
Caller: How many times of the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance (LIFO) can we recite on the eve and first day of Lunar New Year?
Master Jun Hong Lu: 87 times.
Caller: Is it right to say that we can recite 87 times daily for these two days?
Master Jun Hong Lu: That works too. The more LIFO you recite during these two days, through the blessings of Bodhisattvas, you are able to eliminate a hefty amount of your karmic obstacles. The wise will continuously recite LIFO at the Practice Centre or before their Buddhist altar at home. This is what the wise will do. With so many Bodhisattvas around, you should take the opportunity to confide your wrongdoings to Them.
This is very much like in the presence of many superiors, you say, “It was my mistake”, and in this scenario, you are likely to be pardoned. Otherwise, you will have to face the consequences. It’s a pity that many ignorant people do not know about this.
Of all days in a year, you should go on leave during Chinese New Year. Echoing this is the Chinese saying, “Morning sets the tone for the rest of the day, while spring sets the tone for the rest of the year” (一日之计在于晨，一年之计在于春). This goes to show the significance of this festival.
Instead of going on leave, if you choose to work on Chinese New Year’s Eve, you are bound to work for the rest of your life. For overseas Chinese like us, we will go on leave on this day. All of us know it’s Chinese New Year.
There is an ancient saying, “For whatever you do on the first day of Chinese New Year, so shall you do for the rest of the year”. Hence, if you work on the first day of Chinese New Year, you will be working throughout the rest of the year.
Caller: Can we offer First Incense on Chinese New Year’s Eve?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Yes, you should offer First Incense and take advantage of this period to perform more recitations. This applies to LIFO, the Great Compassion Mantra and the Heart Sutra. You should recite them because you will complete your recitation in a flash.
The more LIFO you recite, the faster your recitation gets. You may think that it is difficult to recite LIFO given its length. Let me tell you this, the more you recite, the more at ease you will feel. You must understand that it is very much like unloading goods, you are eliminating all your karmic obstacles. Separately, you must remember to recite Dharani to Purify Karma from Speech more often.
Caller: I will do so.
Source: Wenda20140126B 22:41, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
STEP UP YOUR RECITATION OF THE EIGHTY-EIGHT BUDDHAS GREAT REPENTANCE (LIFO) BEFORE CHINESE NEW YEAR’S EVE
Master Jun Hong Lu: From now on until Chinese New Year’s Eve, those who wish to recite more Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance (LIFO) may choose to do so during this period. Just last night, Guan Yin Bodhisattva alluded that those who can ramp up their recitation of LIFO ahead of Lunar New Year would be able to eliminate a substantial amount of their karmic obstacles.
Caller: If this is the case, how many times of LIFO should we recite from hereon until Lunar New Year?
Master Jun Hong Lu: You may recite up to 21 times daily. This came from Guan Yin Bodhisattva.
Caller: Yet another display of the compassion of Guan Yin Bodhisattva, giving us more opportunities to repent.
Master Jun Hong Lu: That’s right! It will not work if you do not repent. Without repentance, you will never be enlightened and nor will you gain wisdom.
On top of this, prior to Lunar New Year, you really need to step up the recitation of LIFO. It is about getting rid of the old and welcoming the new. If you don’t let go of the old, how are you going to take hold of the new.
Caller: I see. I got it now. Am I right to say that when reciting LIFO, we should seek repentance of the negative karma committed in this lifetime?
Master Jun Hong Lu: That’s right – repent on misdeeds of this lifetime. This is because in this lifetime alone, we have committed countless amounts of mistakes. Otherwise, these wrongdoings are going to bring us a lot of suffering.
Caller: In that case, is there any requirement regarding the offering of Little House, that is, how many should we minimally offer weekly?
Master Jun Hong Lu: It doesn’t really matter because this is a special period that starts from now until Lunar New Year’s Eve. In fact, it is specially allocated for this purpose and hence, it doesn’t matter if you are unable to cope with the recitation of Little Houses. Be rest assured that your karmic obstacles will not be activated.
You can step up your recitation of LIFO until Lunar New Year’s Eve when First Incense is offered. If you don’t, the uneliminated negative karma will be carried forward to the new year in 2016. Many prayers go unanswered during a new year because the weight of their old negative karma piles on the new ones. This is how the concept works.
Why do you clean up your home prior to Lunar New Year’s Eve? If you don’t, your house will remain dirty in the new year and it can only get worse. The dirtier the things you hoard, more filthy items will gather in your home over time. This is why you must clean up your home in order to welcome a new beginning in a new year and only then good tidings will come your way. This is how it works. Do you understand me?
Caller: I understand now. Thank you, Master.
Source: Wenda20160103A 22:36, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
RECITE MORE EIGHTY-EIGHT BUDDHAS GREAT REPENTANCE (LIFO) AND OTHER SCRIPTURES BEFORE THE YEAR ENDS AS IT IS ABLE TO ELIMINATE SUBSTANTIAL KARMIC OBSTACLES; THINGS TO OBSERVE ON THE FIRST DAY OF LUNAR NEW YEAR
Master Jun Hong Lu: Lunar New Year is just around the corner. It is my wish that all of you practise Buddhism diligently and perform recitation. Now, we are moving towards the end of the year, a time for us to settle all the outstanding trivial matters. It is best to perform more recitations, especially LIFO, in the runup to Lunar New Year, as this sutra is capable of helping eliminate a lot of our karmic obstacles.
Please be diligent in your spiritual cultivation. The first day of Lunar New Year falls on a Friday. Based on Chinese traditions, if you are involved in any argument on this day, you are bound to attract various arguments throughout the year. Similarly, if you are not happy on this first day, you may be unhappy for the rest of the year. That is why many people will take leave on the first day. They believe if they work on the first day of Lunar New Year, they may end up having to work the entire year!
Source: Zongshu20180120 00:21, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
QUESTIONS REGARDING THE RECITATION OF THE EIGHTY-EIGHT BUDDHAS GREAT REPENTANCE ON THE EVE AND FIRST DAY OF CHINESE NEW YEAR
Caller: Master, I understand that we can recite up to 87 times of the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance (LIFO) over these two days. I started doing so yesterday and I was a bit wary, and hence did not dare to recite too many times. It looks like I did not make full use of the opportune timing. What if I’m able to recite more today, would I be able to make up for what I missed out yesterday?
Master Jun Hong Lu: You need to hurry up. The moment the clock strikes midnight, you will not be able to do so anymore.
Caller: Is it right to say that we can recite more LIFO prior to midnight?
Master Jun Hong Lu: That’s correct. The officials from the heaven realm are tasked with the elimination of karmic obstacles. Just yesterday, I was dumbfounded when I saw Guan Yin Bodhisattva bringing a huge contingent of Dharma Protectors descending to the human realm. I even asked, “Why are there so many heavenly officials?”
In reality, they were here because there were millions of people reciting LIFO. Yesterday and today are the best days to disperse calamities. Think about it, if you merely recite three to five times of LIFO daily, isn’t it hard to eliminate your karmic obstacles?
Caller: Yes.
Master Jun Hong Lu: It’s therefore important to make good use of these two days.
Caller: What a pity! For what I couldn’t manage to complete yesterday, can I make up for it today?
Master Jun Hong Lu: You are forever living with regrets. When one’s stance is not firm, one’s wisdom will be lacking. Those who have great wisdom are those who never waver. On the other hand, those who are credulous will never be able to gain true wisdom.
Caller: I understand. Thank you, Master. I would like to wish you a Happy Chinese New Year. May you be blessed with auspiciousness, great health and greater success in dharma propagation.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Thank you.
Source: Wenda20140131 39:37, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
RECITATION OF EIGHTY-EIGHT BUDDHAS GREAT REPENTANCE (LIFO) FOR CRITICALLY-ILL PEOPLE DURING LUNAR NEW YEAR
Question: We may recite up to a total of 87 times of LIFO on the eve and first day of Lunar New Year. For critically-ill Buddhist practitioners, what is the maximum number of LIFO that they can recite on both days?
Answer: It should not exceed 49 times in total. Meanwhile, they should also recite more Little Houses in advance.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse (Question 89), 7 February 2016
OFFERING OF LITTLE HOUSES FOR THE DECEASED ON THE FIRST DAY OF LUNAR NEW YEAR
Question: Can we recite Little Houses for the deceased on the first day of Lunar New Year?
Answer: Yes.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse (Question 89), 7 February 2016
ON THE FIRST DAY OF LUNAR NEW YEAR: THE RECITATION OF GONG DE BAO SHAN SHEN ZHOU AND ITS PRAYER REQUEST
Caller: Master, should we recite Gong De Bao Shan Shen Zhou on the first day of Lunar New Year?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Yes. However, it would very much depend on the extent of meritorious deeds you have performed all along. In cases where you have hardly performed any meritorious deeds, the recitation of the said mantra will not serve much of a purpose.
On the other hand, if you have performed a substantial amount of meritorious deeds, recitation of this mantra on the first day of Lunar New Year will double the meritorious blessings received.
Caller: Should we recite 49 times? Is it alright to only do it on that particular day?
Master Jun Hong Lu: That’s right.
Caller: Do we pray for our kind deeds to be transformed into meritorious blessings? Are there any other ways to put forth our prayer request?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Just pray, “May the Greatly Merciful and Greatly Compassionate Guan Yin Bodhisattva protect and bless me, <your full name>, with boundless meritorious blessings in the new year. I will perform more meritorious deeds. May Guan Yin Bodhisattva bless and help me transform the kind deeds that I had accumulated from my past lives into meritorious blessings, to safeguard and protect me so that I can stay healthy in the new year”. You may pray for other matters too.
Caller: Understood, Master.
Source: Wenda20130208 48:35, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
ON THE FIRST DAY OF LUNAR NEW YEAR, DO NOT FOCUS ON RECITING A SPECIFIC BUDDHIST SCRIPTURE; IT IS BENEFICIAL TO RECITE ALL OF THEM
Caller: Hi Master, you recommend us to perform more recitations on the eve and first day of Lunar New Year. With the supreme light radiating from above, and many Bodhisattvas and Dharma Protectors descending to the human realm on these days, we should go all out to perform our recitation. May I know, specifically, which of the Buddhist scriptures are you referring to here?
Master Jun Hong Lu: I am referring to all Buddhist scriptures that you recite daily because the effects will be magnified on these days. Please do not focus on reciting one specific Buddhist scripture because you stand to gain if you recite all of them.
Source: Wenda20200119 37:30, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
IT IS BEST TO PERFORM MORE RECITATIONS ON THE FIRST DAY OF LUNAR NEW YEAR AS THE ENERGY DERIVED FROM YOUR RECITATION IS THREE TIMES MORE POWERFUL THAN USUAL
Caller: Hi Master, my entire family and I are planning to visit Mount Putuo on Chinese New Year’s Eve to offer First Incense. May I know if it’s proper for me to dot Little Houses at Mount Putuo?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Of course you may do so.
Caller: The Buddhist scriptures recited would not be snatched by foreign spirits, would it?
Master Jun Hong Lu: It’s not a problem to do so on the eve of Lunar New Year. This is because there will be countless numbers of Bodhisattvas, Dharma Protectors and officials from the heavenly realm descending to the human realm on the eve and first day of Lunar New Year. Do you think the foreign spirits would even dare to be funny on such occasions?
Caller: If that’s the case, I am resolved to perform recitation all night long on Lunar New Year’s Eve.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Besides, on Lunar New Year’s Eve, the energy you derive from the recitation is three times more powerful than usual.
Caller: Is that right?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Yes. However, that doesn’t mean one sutra/mantra you recite allows you to place three dots on Little House.
Caller: Does it mean that one Little House equates to three Little Houses?
Master Jun Hong Lu: No. I meant to say the energy derived is three times more powerful than usual. That is why, it is best to recite the Buddhist scriptures on this day. This also explains why instead of reciting Little Houses, most people would rather recite the Buddhist scriptures for themselves. To illustrate my point, if you recite 100 times of the Great Compassion Mantra on the first day of Lunar New Year, you are effectively reciting 300 times of it. That said, if you recite Little Houses on this day, it will have unimaginable effects.
Caller: I see. Master, I’ve been performing daily recitation for you. I can sense the exhaustion when you speak. I feel really sorry for you. You are sacrificing so much for a minnow like us. For that, you end up shouldering a hefty amount of our karmic obstacles. This morning, I’ve just recited 20 times of the Great Compassion Mantra for you.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Thank you. Please remember to remain steadfast in your practice. I’m doing it for the sake of sentient beings and in return, they are sacrificing themselves for me.
Caller: Yes, I will be diligent in my practice.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Such a kind-hearted person you are.
Source: Wenda20120122 18:30, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
THINGS TO NOTE WHEN PAYING RESPECT TO THE DECEASED DURING LUNAR NEW YEAR
Question: When should we pay respect to the deceased in the new year? Will that be the day before the eve, the eve or the first day of Lunar New Year?
Answer: Generally, it is better to do it earlier either on the day prior to the eve or the eve of Lunar New Year. The best date is the day prior to the eve of Lunar New Year in order to avoid affecting the joyous atmosphere. You may also do so on the eve, but not during Lunar New Year.
Question: How long should we display the portrait of the deceased before putting it away?
Answer: Once the incense has burnt out, you can keep the portrait of the deceased away.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse (Question 86), 26 January 2016
WE CAN PUT FORTH A PRAYER REQUEST DIRECTED AT OUR ILL HEALTH WHEN RECITING THE EIGHTY-EIGHT BUDDHAS GREAT REPENTANCE ON THE EVE AND FIRST DAY OF LUNAR NEW YEAR
Caller: Hi Master, is it alright to put forth a targeted prayer request to repent of sicknesses we are suffering from given that we can recite up to 87 times of the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance on the eve and first day of Lunar New Year? To prevent the activation of karmic obstacles, we will pair our recitation with either 21 or 49 Little Houses.
Master Jun Hong Lu: That’s perfectly fine.
Source: Wenda20150116 18:47, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
WHICH ASPECT OF OUR KARMIC OBSTACLES SHOULD WE SEEK REPENTANCE ON WHEN RECITING THE EIGHTY-EIGHT BUDDHAS GREAT REPENTANCE ON THE FIRST DAY OF LUNAR NEW YEAR?
Caller: Hi Master, we can recite up to 87 times of the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance on the first day of Chinese New Year**. In this regard, which aspect of our karmic obstacles should we repent on so that we can herald a smooth-sailing year ahead.
Master Jun Hong Lu: You should seek repentance on karmic obstacles relating to your misconduct. What’s most important is, you must be a kind person with good conscience and last but not least, be sincere in your repentance so that you can gain resonance with Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. Without a sincere heart, you will never be able to form a connection with Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. Do you understand?
Caller: Yes, I do. It’s the heart that matters. Thank you, Master.
Source: Wenda20151225 01:36:52, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
**Based on the latest discourses of Master Lu, we can recite up to a combined 87 times of the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance on the eve and first day of Chinese New Year.
SHOULD LITTLE HOUSE BE OFFERED ON THE EVE OR THE FIRST DAY OF LUNAR NEW YEAR?
Caller: Hi Master, should we offer Little Houses on the eve or the first day of Lunar New Year?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Either of these days is fine. As we approach the tail-end of Lunar New Year’s Eve, many Bodhisattvas will be present in the human realm.
Caller: I see. What about Little House for our ancestors?
Master Jun Hong Lu: The best time to offer Little Houses to the ancestors is on the eve of Lunar New Year. Whereas, the appropriate time to offer Little Houses to our karmic creditors and for the purpose of seeking blessings is on the first day of Lunar New Year or after entering a brand new year.
Source: Wenda20140103 28:32, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
INCREASE THE RECITATION OF XIAO ZAI JI XIANG SHEN ZHOU DURING THE FIRST LUNAR MONTH
Caller: How are you, Master? You mentioned that one should recite 49 times of Xiao Zai Ji Xiang Shen Zhou daily in the first month of the lunar calendar. I’d like to ask whether this recitation can be counted as part of one’s daily homework, or as an add-on?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Let me repeat what I have said several years ago: By increasing the number of recitations of Xiao Zai Ji Xiang Shen Zhou in the first lunar month will ensure a safe and peaceful year ahead.
Like I said before, “Spring sets the tone for the rest of the year” (一年之计在于春) and “Morning sets the tone for the rest of the day” (一日之计在于晨). Similarly, there is a belief that a peaceful first day of Chinese New Year augurs well for the rest of the year. As such, one who recites Xiao Zai Ji Xiang Shen Zhou in the first lunar month will have an auspicious and calamity-free year ahead.
Caller: Does it mean that we should increase the recitation of this mantra over and above our daily fixed recitation amount of 49 times, for example. That means, during the first lunar month we may recite up to 78 times?
Master Jun Hong Lu: You may increase it to 80 odd times. In any case, 78 times are fine too.
Caller: What about 108 times?
Master Jun Hong Lu: That works as well.
Source: Wenda20140112A 30:18, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
< POINTS TO NOTE IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A BUDDHIST ALTAR AT HOME >
IN THE ABSENCE OF A BUDDHIST ALTAR, ONE SHOULD NOT RECITE BUDDHIST SCRIPTURES UNTIL THE WEE HOURS OF THE FIRST DAY OF LUNAR NEW YEAR
Caller: Some Buddhist practitioners intend to offer First Incense on the night of Chinese New Year’s Eve, and are curious to know whether in the absence of a Buddhist altar, it is alright for them to offer Heart Incense and recite Buddhist scriptures until the wee hours?
Master Jun Hong Lu: No. It’s best for them to go to another practitioner’s home to prostrate and pay respect to Bodhisattvas in front of a Buddhist altar. After which, he may go home to perform recitation.
Source: Wenda20130111 25:28, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
OFFERING SELF-CULTIVATION RECORD FORMS IN THE ABSENCE OF A FORMAL BUDDHIST ALTAR
Caller: With the exception of the Self-Cultivation Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance, is it alright for those without a Buddhist altar to offer Self-Cultivation Record Forms of the Great Compassion Mantra, the Heart Sutra, the Cundi Dharani and the Amitabha Pure Land Rebirth Mantra?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Though you may do so in the day, it will be rather cumbersome because you may need to make more prayer requests prior to doing so. It is best for you to get a picture of the entire Buddhist altar of Oriental Radio’s Guan Yin Hall and display the picture whenever you are offering the Self-Cultivation Record Forms.
Caller: Does it mean that I need to take a picture of the Buddhist altar to look at for this purpose?
Master Jun Hong Lu: That’s right. Take a photograph of it and find a place to set it up whenever you are offering the Self-Cultivation Record Forms.
Caller: In this case, do I need to offer incense?
Master Jun Hong Lu: That goes without saying. One stick of incense is sufficient because that’s all it takes to invite the Bodhisattva.
Caller: Does it mean that when offering the Self-Cultivation Record Forms, it is best to set up a temporary Buddhist altar?
Master Jun Hong Lu: That’s right. It will not work without one because in the absence of Bodhisattva’s blessings, you run the risk of having your Buddhist scriptures being stolen.
Caller: I see. Is it right to say that it’s alright to burn the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance in the presence of a temporary Buddhist altar for those who do not have a formal altar?
Master Jun Hong Lu: It is not right to say “burning the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance”. Instead, it should be termed as “offering the Self-Cultivation Record Forms”. The former may be misleading because others may think that you are burning the Buddhist scriptures. Do you understand?
Caller: I’m sorry.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Burning the Self-Cultivation Record Forms entails offering certain Buddhist scriptures that one recites as part of one’s spiritual cultivation.
Caller: Thank you, Master.
Source: Wenda20160108 20:30, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
CAN THE SELF-CULTIVATION RECORD FORM OF THE EIGHTY-EIGHT BUDDHAS GREAT REPENTANCE (LIFO) BE POST-DATED BUT OFFERED IN ADVANCE?
Caller: Hi Master, you mentioned before that under special circumstances, Little Houses can be post-dated to the day when they will become effective. I would like to ask if the same can also be applied to the Self-Cultivation Record Form of LIFO? Assuming Chinese New Year is just around the corner and some Buddhist friends will be away, either to their relatives’ house or returning to their respective hometowns where there is no Buddhist altar. In this regard, can they date the Self-Cultivation Record Forms of LIFO as at 15 February but offer them today (26 January)?
Master Jun Hong Lu: The same rule applies. That’s considered post-dated, just like a cheque. However, it is best to write an earlier date.
Caller: That’s right. Master, you mentioned before that this applies to Little Houses.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Yes.
Caller: Many Buddhist friends return to their respective hometowns for Chinese New Year. Besides not having a Buddhist altar, they may not be able to recite that many scriptures then. Under such circumstances, they may post-date the Self-Cultivation Forms to a future date and offer them earlier. Is that alright, Master?
Master Jun Hong Lu: That’s alright.
Source: Wenda20180126 01:03:00, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
Download Self-Cultivation Record Forms here: https://jumpshare.com/b/7QgRcEFXiVEhgUyj1VLw/CYK0OTG8vOCauhjCSiQ7
< DOS AND DON’TS DURING CNY >
PRE-CHINESE NEW YEAR ETIQUETTES
Master Jun Hong Lu: As Chinese New Year approaches, I would like to take this opportunity to share with you some of the pre-Chinese New Year etiquettes. Generally speaking, one should tidy up his desk and sweep the floor before Chinese New Year. As we embrace the New Year with a new outlook, we should dispose of some of the old items, so that we will be blessed with good luck in the New Year. That’s why people spring clean their homes during the year-end and before Chinese New Year.
Source: Wenda20171231A 26:34, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
TIDYING AND CLEANING UP SHOULD BE PERFORMED BEFORE THE EVE OF LUNAR NEW YEAR; THIS ALSO APPLIES TO HAVING A HAIRCUT
Question: Can one open his hairdressing shop on the first day of New Year (1 January)?
Answer: That’s absolutely fine as it is not the first day of Lunar New Year. Also, please note that one should not cut their hair on the first day of Lunar New Year. It is to be done beforehand. This is because the first day of Lunar New Year marks the beginning of a new year and hence, it is inauspicious to have a haircut on that day. In fact, anything involving rearranging things, tidying or cleaning up a room must be done before the eve of the Chinese New Year.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse (Question 351), 16 December 2019
WHAT SHOULD WE DO WITH THE ASHES OF LITTLE HOUSES OFFERED ON THE FIRST DAY OF CHINESE NEW YEAR?
Question: We are not supposed to throw out trash on the first day of Lunar New Year. How about the ashes of Little Houses that have been offered?
Answer: You don’t have to throw them away. Just wrap them properly before placing them in a relatively clean dustbin.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse (Question 89), 7 February 2016
AVOID DOING LAUNDRY ON THE FIRST DAY OF LUNAR NEW YEAR
Caller: In the morning of the first day of Lunar New Year, a Buddhist friend stained his trousers, and he conveniently washed it without giving it much thought. Subsequently, he had a dream and in the dream, the shop owner substituted his wallet for another. Does this have anything to do with the fact that he washed his trousers that day?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Of course it has.
Caller: Does it mean that we should not do laundry in the morning of the first day of Lunar New Year as it may cause financial misfortune?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Precisely! Doing so spells trouble because it is a sign of washing away his fortune for the rest of his life.
Caller: Does it mean it has been actualised in the dream?
Master Jun Hong Lu: It means financial misfortune will befall him. Washing trousers on the first day of Lunar New Year can bring about financial misfortune. Avoid doing so.
Caller: Alright. So, we should not do laundry and take a bath.
Master Jun Hong Lu: I never said you cannot take a bath.
Source: Shuohua20190208 32:37, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
THE RECORDING OF THE GREAT COMPASSION MANTRA CAN BE LEFT TO REPLAY IN A LONG-UNOCCUPIED HOUSE
Caller: I have a house back in my hometown. However, I am now based in a different city, and may only go back to that house once a year during the Chinese New Year period. In this case, what should I do with my bed?
Master Jun Hong Lu: It doesn’t matter, just leave the bed as it is but try to regularly play the recording of the Great Compassion Mantra. When there’s no one at home, you may play it softly.
Source: Wenda20160724B 37:25, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
AVOID GOING OUT IN THE NIGHT OF THE FIRST DAY OF LUNAR NEW YEAR
Caller: Hi Master, you once mentioned that it would be best to avoid house-hopping on the first and second days of Lunar New Year. But, in reality this is a common practice during Lunar New Year. By doing so, we run the risk of encountering some negative energy fields. In this regard, how do we resolve this?
Master Jun Hong Lu: First and foremost, it is fine to go out visiting places or friends on the first and second days of Lunar New Year. What I mean to say is it is best to avoid going out after nightfall and it is alright to do so during the daytime.
There’s nothing wrong with going out on the second day of Lunar New Year. The day in question is the first day, when it is best not to go out at night.
There is a saying, “If one goes out on the first day of Lunar New Year, he is likely not to be home throughout the year”. This is a person who likes to roam outside which implies a mind that is unsettled.
Caller: I see. What about those, for example, in Shanghai who are about to return to their hometowns for Lunar New Year? What should they do if they only manage to return home on the first day of Lunar New Year?
Master Jun Hong Lu: It doesn’t matter to return to your hometown on the first day of Lunar New Year. But, once there, you should avoid heading out at night. If you head out with your family, your family home will become vacant and this is what’s termed as “an empty home” which means the house becomes unoccupied. It’s fine to receive guests at home on the first day of Lunar New Year at night, but if you leave home to visit others, you are ‘vacating’ your house.
Caller: I see. Thank you Master for your advice.
Source: Wenda20130203B 01:02, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
THE CUSTOM OF NOT SWEEPING RUBBISH ON THE FIRST DAY OF LUNAR NEW YEAR
Caller: We have been advised by old folks not to sweep or throw rubbish on the first day of Lunar New Year. As Buddhist practitioners, is this something we should pay attention to?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Diplomatically, it’s a custom, but from a feng shui perspective, if you can perform kind deeds on the first day of Lunar New Year, good tidings will come knocking at your door throughout the year and vice versa.
It’s said that on the first day of Lunar New Year, we should view everything in the house as treasures. It’s alright to sweep the rubbish but you must sweep it towards the house, and not outward. Furthermore, you are not supposed to remove the rubbish from your home because if you do so, you are akin to discarding your home treasures, and you may end up having no treasure or money for the rest of the year.
Caller: There seems to be a belief that we are not supposed to wash our hair too.
Master Jun Hong Lu: That’s right, do not shave your head or wash your hair.
Caller: Alright. Thank you, Master.
Source: Wenda20130208 01:11:52, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
THE CHINESE CHARACTER 福 (FU) SHOULD NOT BE PASTED UPSIDE DOWN
Caller: As Lunar New Year approaches, many people paste the Chinese character 福 (‘fu’ which means blessings or fortune) and Spring Festival couplets as a tradition. Are there any particular things to note?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Yes. The Chinese character 福 (fu) should not be pasted upside down.
Caller: Can we not paste it?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Well, that’s fine too. You may as well do away with it if you choose to paste it upside down. The reason being, there will be ‘proper’ blessings only when the character is written upright.
How did the upside-down pasting come about? In the past, the Cantonese regarded by doing so as ‘the arrival of fortunes’, because the Chinese characters for ‘upside down’ (倒 dao) and ‘arrive’ (到 dao) are homophonous. Think about it, when you paste it upside down, you are literally ‘overturning’ your entire fortune simply for the sake of the auspicious pun, which will not even be vocalised. Just take a look at those who do so, how many of them are really making a fortune?
Caller: So it’s not good?
Master Jun Hong Lu: That’s for sure.
Source: Wenda20120115 77:07, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
NO PARTICULAR AUSPICIOUS DATES TO OBSERVE FOR THE COMMENCEMENT OF BUSINESS OR WORK DURING CHINESE NEW YEAR
Caller: Master, what are the auspicious dates for the commencement of business or work during Chinese New Year? Is there any particular practice to observe from the metaphysical point of view?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Not really.
Source: Wenda20200105 18:40, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
Q&A 33. Hanging lanterns during Chinese New Year
Q&A 30. Setting off firecrackers during Chinese New Year
IT IS BEST NOT TO GIVE ALCOHOL OR CIGARETTES AS NEW YEAR GIFTS
Caller: It’s a common practice for people to give alcohol or cigarettes as a gift for Lunar New Year. For Buddhist practitioners like us who observe the Five Precepts, is it appropriate to give alcohol as a gift?
Master Jun Hong Lu: When you give alcohol as a gift to others, you must not think “I am giving him this alcohol because I know he is a drinker”. If such a thought does not arise, your intent will be kept in check. That said, it is best not to give alcohol as a gift.
Caller: Thank you, Master.
Source: Wenda20130208 01:15:09, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
ARE THERE KARMIC RAMIFICATIONS IF WE REGIFT ALCOHOL OR CIGARETTES?
Caller: Hi Master, exchanging gifts during the festive periods is widely practised and has become a norm of social reciprocity. Many people would typically give alcohol and cigarettes as a gift. Will there be karmic obstacles if we regift these items to others?
Master Jun Hong Lu: It should be alright to regift those alcohol and cigarettes as long as it falls within the normal ambit of social politeness where the quantity is not large and it’s done merely as a gesture of social reciprocity.
The fact is, you did not ‘accept’ those gifts. What you did is, you gave away what others gave you. As long as it is purely an act of regifting, there’s no problem.
Source: Shuohua20141128 23:33, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
WHY PLAYING CARD GAMES AND MAHJONG ARE INADVISABLE?
Caller: In one of the past radio programs, Master mentioned that playing cards is an activity of the Underworld. Can Master elaborate about the inappropriateness of playing cards? After all, it is such a popular game in China and many people are fond of playing cards.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Card playing is never good because you are likely to offend the petty-minded people. Spirits in the Underworld, having nothing to do, spend their time on card games. Card games are inherently of Yin (negative) attributes because the cards are not supposed to be revealed to others. Besides, they are also something that can diminish your life. Card players are bound to age very quickly because their time is squandered on card games day in, day out and hence, a year will just zip by.
Caller: Does the same apply to both card games and mahjong?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Yes.
Source: Wenda20131201A 33:25, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
< WELCOMING THE BODHISATTVA OF WEALTH DURING CHINESE NEW YEAR >
Q&A 131. Welcoming the Bodhisattva of Wealth during Chinese New Year
Q&A 131: HOW DO WE WELCOME THE BODHISATTVA OF WEALTH? WHAT SUTRAS AND MANTRAS SHOULD WE RECITE?
Answer: On the fifth day of Chinese New Year, keep in mind that we should not openly state that our wish is to become wealthy.
Many people make incense offerings and pray for wealth on the fifth day of Chinese New Year but are unable to have their wish fulfilled. It is because they have said their wishes out loud.
Many people like to talk about the good deeds that they have done. For example, “I have helped many poor people”, “I have donated such and such amount of money”, or “I have made such and such contributions”, etc. It is best to refrain from doing so.
On the fifth day of Chinese New Year when the Bodhisattva of Wealth is visiting us, avoid saying, “I want to get rich”. If you say this, it is very likely that your wish would not be fulfilled.
As your Master, I hope that everyone will be well. I am not teaching you ways to get rich as ultimately, money cannot bring us happiness. Many people are very wealthy, but they are not happy. A truly wise person will pray for peace and safety. There is a Chinese saying, “Being safe and well itself is a blessing (平安就是福)”.
We should not be greedy. Once a person becomes greedy, he will experience sorrow, poverty and suffering. As Buddhist practitioners, we should not be greedy.
Generally, during the daytime on the fifth day of Chinese New Year, you can recite the Cundi Dharani 108 times and the Heart Sutra 21 times.
Before you recite, you can say the following prayer, “May the Greatly Merciful and Greatly Compassionate Guan Yin Bodhisattva and the Bodhisattva of Wealth protect and bless me, <your full name>, so that I will have a smooth career and an improved financial situation.”
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Buddhism Your Questions Answered, Q&A 131
IT IS BEST TO ADOPT A VEGETARIAN DIET ON THE FIFTH DAY OF LUNAR NEW YEAR, WHEN THE BODHISATTVA OF WEALTH BRINGS GOOD FORTUNE
Caller: Dear Master, it’s Chinese New Year now and we will certainly adopt a full vegetarian diet on the first and the fifteenth days of every lunar month. Due to the many gatherings of relatives and friends during this period, could you please let us know are there any other specific days that we should avoid eating meat?
Master Jun Hong Lu: First and foremost, bear in mind that it is best to adopt a vegetarian diet on the first and the fifteenth days of the Lunar New Year. Why? It is because many Bodhisattvas will descend to the human realm on these days. As you are not a full vegetarian yet, after the first day of Chinese New Year, you may return to your usual diet on the second, third and fourth days. That said, it is best to avoid consuming animals that are slaughtered alive.
The fifth day of Chinese New Year is the day that we welcome the arrival of the Bodhisattva of Wealth. It’s quite common for people to pray for prosperity on this day. Do you think eating meat on this day can bring you good fortune? Compassion could bring you wisdom and prosperity. When you are compassionate and abstain from killing, won’t you say you have refrained from both the act of killing as well as consuming live creatures? Adopt a vegetarian diet on this day to welcome the Bodhisattva of Wealth and check it out for yourself whether you have better money-making opportunities.
Source: Wenda20130210 27:47, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
OFFERING INCENSE THREE TIMES DAILY MAY AUGMENT WEALTH LUCK
Master Jun Hong Lu: How many times do you usually offer incense at home daily? I suppose twice? Remember this, you may offer incense three times daily when it comes to your zodiac year of birth, and if you wish to avoid possible financial loss. This practice will not only save you from financial problems but also benefit your wealth luck.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Public Talk, Sydney, Australia, 12 January 2020
TIPS ON IMPROVING WEALTH LUCK AND ELIMINATING NEGATIVE KARMA
Master Jun Hong Lu: Do you know of another way to improve wealth luck? When the incense burner is not in use, take it down from the Buddhist altar and wipe it. If you are an investor, wiping the incense burner will help to increase your fortune. In fact, this is a common practice in many dharma doors.
Performing the act of washing is also a good way to eliminate negative karma. Hence, you can throw yourself into washing whenever you feel unhappy as this will improve your mood. You may notice many people will start washing in the kitchen whenever they are upset. They will feel much better after a while, because this is one of the ways to give vent to their negative emotions.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Public Talk, Sydney, Australia, 12 January 2020
WIPING THE INCENSE BURNER TO PRAY FOR WEALTH WILL EXPEND ONE’S MERITS AS THEY TRANSFORM INTO WORLDLY BLESSINGS
Caller: Hello, Master. You said that wiping the incense burner can help augment one’s wealth luck. However, a Buddhist friend is concerned that this is one way to pray for worldly blessings and hence, it would expend a substantial portion of his merits. Is it true, Master?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Of course it will. Think about it, if you pray for wealth, your merits will be transformed into worldly blessings.
I shared this tip in one of the public talks because I could tell that many of the participants had yet to practise Buddhism and they are either Chinese immigrants in Australia or local western friends. These people came with the hope of praying for wealth, so I offered them some tips. It was not directed at those with a high state of mind. Do you think a person with a high state of spirituality would even pray for wealth in the first place?
Caller: That’s right. A Buddhist friend is desperately praying for wealth. After completing his recitation, he will bring the incense burner and keep wiping it. Is there a specific timing that we are permitted to do this? This Buddhist friend has the impression that he will have abundant wealth luck if he continuously wipes the incense burner.
Master Jun Hong Lu: This is not how it works. After the incense has burnt out, and before offering the next incense, you can leave the incense burner on the Buddhist altar and wipe it, but make sure you do not move the incense burner. You can only move the incense burner once it has been taken down from the Buddhist altar. Do not rotate the incense burner when it is still on the Buddhist altar. Instead, you should manoeuvre your hand around it, instead.
Caller: If he brings the incense burner down from the Buddhist altar, can he go on wiping it all day long?
Master Jun Hong Lu: No. Don’t do that.
Source: Wenda20200209 35:15, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
LEVELLING ASHES IN INCENSE BURNER WILL INCREASE WEALTH; RECITE THE HEART SUTRA WHEN DOING SO
Caller: Is levelling of ashes in the incense burner a meritorious deed?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Yes, that’s very good.
Caller: How many times a day should we level the ashes in the incense burner? Is there any aspect that we need to pay attention to?
Master Jun Hong Lu: It’s up to you. If you feel you are financially tight or having some degree of financial difficulty recently, you may pray to Bodhisattva for an improved financial condition.
To further boost your financial luck, you may pray, “I wish to perform more meritorious deeds”. Only with this kind of positive energy will your wish for wealth come true. After stating the above, you may start levelling the ashes in the incense burner and your wish will be fulfilled because the act of levelling the ashes in the incense burner is meritorious.
Caller: I see, even this can increase one’s fortune.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Yes, it increases the fortune significantly.
Caller: Which Buddhist scriptures should be recited when doing so?
Master Jun Hong Lu: The Heart Sutra.
Source: Wenda20200124 58:11, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
< Buddhism in Plain Terms < 白话佛法共修分享
