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58 EASTERN HORIZON | TEACHINGS

Dadul: Generally, objects and places become sacred By integrating dharma practice into pilgrimage,
after being visited and used by realized masters. That individuals can infuse their journey with intention,
way, they become connected with the memory and ethical behavior, and self-reflection. This integration
imbued with energy from extended practice of wisdom enriches the pilgrimage experience, enabling pilgrims
and compassion and the force of the prayers made to not only visit sacred places but also deepen their
by the past masters. By physically visiting the places spiritual understanding and embody their principles
and touching the objects, the aspirants connect with more fully.
the masters across time and space which help them
generate inspiration for their own spiritual practice Dadul: Our Dharma practice can prepare and inform us
and direction. It also encourages the aspirants to stay better in connecting with the pilgrimage sites by giving
in a positive mind-set and engage in virtuous activities, rise to deeper appreciation of the spiritual qualities and
accumulating spiritual merit and strength. significance of the achievements of the past masters. The
deeper our practice, the deeper our spiritual sensitivity
How does our Dharma practice inform and enrich can become and that helps in bringing to life the dharma
the experience of pilgrimage? principles and practices of past masters for us.

Aggacitta: This is rather subjective. Practitioners who Can you share any personal pilgrimage experiences
are more intellectual may not even be inspired to go on that had a profound impact on your spiritual
a pilgrimage, whereas those who are more devotional journey?
and sensitive claim that their practice deepens at the
pilgrimage sites. But it is uncertain if their practice Aggacitta: Unfortunately, no. Being an intellectual
continues to deepen after the pilgrimage because it practitioner who is a minimalist in regard to rituals
could just be a stand-alone transient experience in a and devotional practices, my pilgrimage experience
special environment. was anything but inspiring to me. Instead, I observed
that the locals, in the hope of getting easy income, were
Min Wei: Dharma practice, which refers to living in manipulating the faith of the devotees with fake shrines,
alignment with one’s moral and ethical principles, caves and artefacts attributed to prominent disciples
can significantly inform and enrich the experience of of the Buddha without any substantial archeological or
pilgrimage. Here are several ways in which Dharma historical evidence.
practice can contribute to the pilgrimage journey:
1. Dharma practice encourages individuals to set Min Wei: I would like to share my spiritual journey to
clear intentions and cultivate a purposeful mindset. Bodhgaya. Bodhgaya holds immense significance as
Before embarking on a pilgrimage, clarifying one’s one of the most revered and important pilgrimage sites
intention, such as seeking spiritual growth, or in Buddhism. The most famous site at Bodhgaya is the
seeking guidance, can help create a focused and Bodhi Tree, under which the Buddha sat on the night of
meaningful pilgrimage experience. his enlightenment.
2. Dharma practice emphasizes cultivating virtues
such as compassion, kindness, patience, and It is a place where one can connect with the roots
honesty. Integrating these virtues during pilgrimage of Buddhism, delve into personal spirituality, and
enhances the pilgrim’s interactions with fellow find solace in the teachings of the Buddha. The
pilgrims, locals, and the environment. atmosphere is serene and charged with spiritual energy,
3. Dharma practice often involves self-inquiry and creating a conducive environment for meditation
self-reflection to gain insight into one’s thoughts, and introspection. Overall, Bodhgaya offers a deeply
emotions, and behaviors. This self-reflection can enriching and meaningful pilgrimage experience.
lead to personal growth, increased self-awareness,
and a deeper understanding of one’s spiritual path.