Different Buddhist traditions have different customs regarding how one should behave in a shrine room, temple, meditation hall, or other practice spaces. Generally, these customs focus on demonstrating respect toward the three jewels (Buddha, dharma, and sangha) not for their benefit, but for our own. When we consciously agree to follow these rules to show respect, it powerfully impacts our minds.

Some examples of practice decorum are leaving shoes outside the door, avoiding pointing one’s feet toward the shrine, avoiding setting books or texts on the floor, bowing toward the shrine or altar, speaking in a quiet voice, and being more mindful of one’s actions, thoughts, and words. Many of these customs are culturally specific, so it is helpful to understand the logic behind each one but not to be too fussy or worried about breaking the rules.

Learning the rules of etiquette of the communities you participate in is helpful, demonstrating respect toward the group, but it is even more beneficial in developing admiration, respect, and devotion toward the three jewels. The habit of demonstrating respect outwardly can actually generate respect in your heart; it’s a way of training your mind from the outside in.

Rituals, etiquette, and codes of conduct for the shrine room serve as mindfulness methods to foster an atmosphere that supports practice and awakening. They enhance our awareness of ourselves, our actions, and our attitudes.

Compare the experience and feeling of being in a classroom (or shrine room) where students demonstrate discipline with the experience of an undisciplined chaotic classroom.

• What does it feel like to show respect in someone else's sacred space?
• What does it feel like when a guest shows respect in your own sacred space?

Analyze shrine room etiquette practices as external expressions of internal reverence for the three jewels; evaluate how mindful behavior in sacred spaces cultivates respect, awareness, and devotion; and implement appropriate ritual conduct while explaining how these practices function as mind-training techniques that transform outer behavior into inner spiritual development.