Oryoki is an ancient method of preparing, serving, and eating during formal retreats held in Chinese and Japanese monasteries that continues to the present. It is a practice that we observe daily at the temple for breakfast and lunch and may also use for an evening snack during retreats. We have modified the system to better comply with COVID rules. The forms used at the Holy Vajrasana Temple reflect those learned by the abbot when she lived in Japanese monasteries in Japan and the USA, although the chants have been modified slightly to reflect other esoteric practices of the temple. The oryoki rituals are observed as a way of expressing gratitude for the food and all those that were responsible for it. The term ORYOKI is a Japanese word that means “just enough!” to nourish us so that we can practice the way of the Buddha. The rituals also include making offerings to the local spirits and hungry ghosts as well as to the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.
CLICK to learn how to use the oryoki bowls.
CLICK to learn how to prepare oryoki meals.