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Abstain from Eating Flesh
On every 16th of each month (the day Shinran
Shinran passed on), and on Memorial Days (death of family members), our independent
Buddhist communities observe the ancient tradition of Shojin Observance or Shojin-bi, in which
we are encouraged to reappreciate the value of all sentient beings by partaking in vegetarian or vegan food. If one is already
a vegetarian, one may wish to partake in vegan meals (no animal products whatsoever).
The abstaining from eating flesh gives us a spiritual opportunity to humbly reflect, even
for just one day a month, on the sacrifice of countless beings that sustain our lives. Shojin Observance allows us to deeply
remember that not a day goes by that other beings must be killed to make it possible for us to live. Therefore, on those days
when we are not practicing Shojin-bi, we should reflect and in gratitude use their sacrifice to the most worthly of causes,
the enlightenment of ourselves and others.
Monthly Rededication to Practice
Not only is Shojin Observance a day for vegetarian or vegan meals but also it is a way to rededicate
oneself to the Three Jewels, the Buddhist teachings and practices, and our lifestyle
of peace and harmony. During Shojin Observance days one should reflect on the dharma, remember the Buddha, and singleheartedly
practice deep hearing and voice the nembutsu,-Namu-Amida-Butsu.
What is Shojin?
It is a Japanese word derived from the Sanskrit virya, the fourth Buddhist virtue meaning effort, strength, energy or vigor. Shojin means to persevere on
the Buddhist path, refraining from evil, learning to do good and awakening the mind. The Japanese word Shojin-ryori means
energy food which is mainly vegan or with some vegetarian. You could say that Shojin meals are Buddhist "soul"
food.
Other Shojin-bi Days
Our Board of Directors added three more Shojin-bi days: Higan
(Autumn & Spring Equinox) and on New Year’s Day, which we call Maitreya
Day. Observing Shojin-bi on New Year’s Day is a great way to start off the new year with rededication and devotion to
the dharma.
Reflections on Buddhist Soul Food
This Buddhism Today online article discusses the history and meaning of
Shojin-ryori. Plus this web page has other links to interesting Buddhist vegetarianian online articles.
CLICK HERE to read "Buddhist Soul Food" article.
Japanese Cookery for Vegetarians
& Vegans
This Shojin web site gives very complete information
on the history, commonly used ingredients, and discusses soups, rice, noodles etc while offering very delicious
recipes.
CLICK HERE to enter Japanese Cookery.
Shojin Mealtime Prayer
During Shojin Observance
days and all other meals, for breakfast, lunch, snack time and dinner, practitioners should recite either vocally or in the
mind the Prayer of Mealtime Thanksgiving. This is a wonderful practice
to reflect on the dharma and and give thanks for the sacrifice of living beings who maintain our daily well
being and survival.
“This food is the gift of
the whole universe,
Each morsel is a sacrifice of life,
May I be worthy to receive it.
May the energy in this food,
Give
me the strength,
To transform my unwholesome qualities into wholesome ones.
I am grateful for this
food,
I accept this sacrifice,
May
I realize the Path of Awakening,
for the sake of all
beings.
Namo Amida Buddha.”
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