Temple Rules and Guidelines
Temple Dress
Wear comfortable, loose clothing – subdued colors are best so as not to distract. Heavy socks in the winter (we don’t wear shoes in the temple). No shorts in the summer. Long loose dresses for women are acceptable if you can easily sit lotus in them. Do not wear jewelry – clinking bracelet or chains distract those meditating. Do not wear scents or fragrances.
Conduct
Speak softly if you must speak at all.
Enter the main temple by using the East or West side doors (The North door is only to be used by monks).
Shoes are removed before entering the temple (remember heavy socks in the winter!).
Bow once to the Buddha upon entering.
If you are comfortable doing this, do three full bows (prostrations) to the Buddha. You will need a mat. Stand with your palms joined (as in prayer), kneel, put your head to the floor, and raise your hands to the side of your head by your ears, and then rise to a standing position.
Never walk in front of someone who is meditating – walk behind. Imagine there is a wire connected to each person and it stretches to the altar.
Never drink alcohol before coming to the temple.
Always address the monks as Sunim even if they tell you their name. It is considered disrespectful to call a Sunim by his or her Buddhist name.