The altar in which the Gohonzon (object of worship) is enshrined is called the butsudan. Butsugu is a general term for the Buddhist accessories used to make offerings to the Gohonzon in front of the butsudan. The three basic accessories are the white candle, the incense burner and the evergreen vase. The three together are called “mitsugusoku” or the three accessories.
Incense, candles and evergreens, each have a significant meaning in Buddhism:
- Incense represents the property of the Law, the truth to which the Buddha is enlightened.
- White candle represents the property of wisdom. This enables the Buddha to see the truth.
- Evergreens represent the physical property of the Buddha’s life, the property of compassionate action.
If you have decided to become a Buddhist or are interested in learning how to become a Buddhist, please check our calendar for our Introductory Series on Buddhism and visit our Temple soon!
