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“Buddhist Prostrators on the Road to Lhasa: A Journey of Faith and Endurance”

On the roads to Lhasa, Buddhists prostrate all the way from their village to the holy city. They wear protective gear and endure hardships, prostrating every 3 steps for months or even years.

Years ago, the practice of Buddhism encompassed a nomadic lifestyle, where devoted followers would embark on journeys without carrying any extra provisions, such as food or clothing. They relied solely on the goodwill and generosity of others, resorting to begging whenever they felt hungry or cold. This way of life was a testament to their unwavering faith and their commitment to detachment from material possessions. However, as times have changed, the teachings of Buddhism have adapted to modern-day circumstances.

Today, while Buddhists may still find themselves responsible for providing meals and clothing, their dedication to the practice remains steadfast. They have found alternative ways to express their devotion while respecting the demands and constraints of the contemporary world. One such practice that has evolved is the act of prostration.

Traditionally, prostration involved a series of physical movements that were done in reverence to the Buddha. However, in today’s fast-paced and bustling environment, it is not always practical or possible to perform full prostrations, especially in situations like heavy traffic. Instead, modern Buddhists have developed a thoughtful and mindful approach to prostration. When faced with circumstances that do not allow for the complete physical act, they adapt by drawing lines with pebbles. This simple yet powerful gesture signifies their commitment and keeps them connected to their faith. It serves as a constant reminder to remain humble and devoted, even in the face of adversity.

To engage in proper prostration, Buddhists begin by standing upright and centring themselves. They softly chant the words “merciful Buddha,” allowing the vibrations of the sound to resonate within their core. As they raise their arms, they take a deliberate step forward, symbolizing their progress on the spiritual path. Next, with a sense of surrender and humility, they lower their arms and take another step forward. As their arms reach their chest, they gently separate and stretch them outward, embracing the universe and acknowledging the interconnectedness of all beings. Kneeling down, they finally bring their brow to touch the floor, a profound act of surrender and devotion.

This entire process is repeated, step by step, with a sense of mindfulness and intention. It is a rhythmic dance between the physical body and the spiritual essence within, a sacred ritual that binds the practitioner to the teachings of the Buddha. One way that Buddhists choose to honour the monastery and deepen their connection with their faith is by embarking on a special pilgrimage. They undertake a journey of devotion, walking in a clockwise direction around the monastery while engaging in prostrations.

Starting from the front gate, each Buddhist prostrates once every three steps, creating a rhythmic pattern that synchronizes their body, speech, and mind. As they move through the grounds, their voices resonate with the chanting of Buddhist scriptures, filling the air with a sense of serenity and reverence. This pilgrimage becomes a transformative experience for the practitioners, as they immerse themselves in the sacred atmosphere of the monastery. Every step, every prostration, is a testament to their unwavering faith and their commitment to walk the path of enlightenment.

In conclusion, the practice of Buddhism has evolved over the years to adapt to the changing times. While the nomadic lifestyle of begging for sustenance may no longer be prevalent, the core principles of faith, dedication, and humility remain intact. Buddhists have found new ways to express their devotion, such as the mindful adaptation of prostration. Through this sacred practice, they continue to embody the teachings of the Buddha, seeking enlightenment in the midst of the modern world.

About the author

The Tibetan Travel website's creator, hailing from Lhasa, is a cultural enthusiast. They promote responsible tourism, connecting the world to Tibet's beauty and heritage. Awards recognize their contribution.

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