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Here are some basic guidelines to get started chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo. We hold Introduction to Buddhism meetings regularly. Check our calendar for time and location.
If you have decided to give chanting a try, here’s how to get started:
1. Find a quiet place with no distractions facing a blank wall with no pictures. Try not to let anything distract you.
2. Sit in a comfortable chair, preferably a straight back chair that allows for proper posture to sit still and breath well. If you prefer, you can kneel Japanese-style. Posture is important. Try not to slouch.
3. Place your hands together in front of your chest. If you have beads, place them in your hands as in the picture. Be sure to ask if you have any questions.
4. With your eyes open face the blank wall. Chant Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo three times slowly. This is called Daimoku Sansho.
5. In a calm easy voice, begin to chant in an easy rhythm. Feel free to chant as long as you wish, but try it for at least 3-5 minutes.
6. When you decide that you want stop chanting, just stop with the last Kyo. Take a breath and recite Nam Myoho Renge Kyo three times slowly .
7. As a beginner, we recommend chanting in the morning for about 10 or 15 minutes and in the evening for about 10 or 15 minutes.
8. The best way to learn is to come to the temple and chant with the Priest as often as you can. You are most welcome to visit the Temple. If you don’t live near the Temple, we have member groups in many locations in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Georgia, Alabama and other locations. Use the form below to contact the Temple and we can connect you with someone who can help you learn to chant.
9. Once you have had the opportunity to visit the Temple or attend a group meeting, and you receive Gojukai, the Acceptance of the Precepts, you should get a Liturgy Book and download the Chief Priest Sutra recitation (or use the YouTube video below) to begin learning the sutra recitation. Please resist the urge to use videos on YouTube of people saying they can teach you how to properly chant the sutra. Use the authentic source here to learn the proper pronunciation.
If you would like to visit the Temple for an Introduction meeting or to chant, or you would like to find a group near you, please complete the form below.
If you have questions, please email us.
