Trying to get an answer

SpiritualPilgrim

I was wondering if it is acceptable or possible to have any (i.e. Thai, Tibetan, etc.) Buddhist Master/Teacher bless an object. Also, what sort of items would be acceptable? I have read quite a bit about the Khata/Kata scarves but have read that they are generally as a sort of gift you would give when wanting to bless a new relationship or good luck on a new venture. Is that so? Would be acceptable to give for someone to wish them well in overcoming an illness? Would a Khata/Kata be okay? The reason I ask is because my mother has cancer (for the second time in less than a year) and I would like to do something for her outside of our religion. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Ada_B

I don't see any harm in that. A kata scarf would be fine, I think, although they are often used as ritual offerings and maybe some teachers would be concerned you thought the kata had magical properties.

Another popular gift for the sick is a medicine Buddha - either a charm on a necklace, or a little statue to put on her bed. But you have to be sure your mother would appreciate the gift and not feel you are imposing your Buddhist beliefs on her. A lot of my friends would be happy to accept such a gift even though they're not Buddhist, however.

Otherwise, why not something from her own religion? It doesn't matter provided it motivates her to practice kindness and compassion towards herself and others. I often give Christian friends cards with the Serenity Prayer on it, which they seem to appreciate and has IMHO very Buddhist ideals.

I wish your mother all the best in her illness and commend you for your compassion towards her.

SpiritualPilgrim

While I'm not trying to sound like I disapprove or downplay our current religion as Catholics, I just feel that since going through her journey with this illness, I've been somewhat compelled to explore other spiritual options. I've done the rosaries and pendants, prayer cards, etc. but I feel that those are somewhat empty, for lack of a better term. We have always had a close bond and not being able to share with her the actual experience, I want to be able to bring her something from my different journeys as I explore new options for spirituality.

What would be an accepted reason to give a Kata scarf? I have two sisters, one of whom is getting married and the other about to have her first child. Would these occasions be acceptable to present one to them?

federica

It doesn't matter what you give them. The noble thing for you is your intention and meaning.

Jeffrey

I agree with fed but only if your family is open minded. If they are southern baptists who believe they are being given a demonic item then no, but that doesn't sound like what your situation and it would be obvious to you.

I am not Christian but if I were dying and my christian friends said they were praying for me or gave me a cross I would be touched.

Now if they try to convert me on deathbed that is not cool. Ego not spirit.

federica

When my father was terminally ill, I gave him a wooden carved statuette of The Medicine Buddha. he kept it by his bedside all through his illness, and when he died, my mother took it and now keeps it by her bedside, with a photo of my father propped up on it.
She loves it.
My parents are both R.Catholics, (as was I) and as my mother was the one to introduce me to Buddhism, I know she wasn't offended one bit when I brought him the statue, you see.....