How do I properly greet a buddhist monk?

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Solja87

New member
For my cultural anthropology class I am gooing to the local buddhist temple to interview a buddhist monk and I was wondering how to properly greet them. also what would be the best time of the day to visit them. I dont want to interupt them praying or eating.
 
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KevinR

Member
Place your palms together (as in praying for Christians) and bring your fingertips to the area of your eyebrows and nose. At the same time, tilt your head down and give him the traditional greeting 'Namaste' (pronounced Na-mas-tay) which means roughly 'I acknowledge that which is divine in us all'

To which the same greeting will be returned...

I don't think the time of day is so important, just follow what you would consider a normal schedule. Call the temple ahead of time and they can tell you.

Be careful, Buddhism is a beautiful religion and you may find yourself becoming more interested than you suspect. Every Buddhist monk I have ever met has been, at the same time, the most inspirational and most annoying person I have ever met. :)
 
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JamesK

Member
The monks I have met are quite worldly and know that not everyone knows their customs. As to when to call on them, I expect you could simply call them and ask.
When you visit, speak politely as you would to your Priest / Rabbi / etc. In my Order we have a saying: 'Speak the same language to men that you would to your mother.'
Simply do this and you will be fine.
 
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