The Buddha is one perfect in merit and wisdom, a noble example for us to follow. That is why Buddhists set up a shrine to honour Him — to follow His virtues, to repent our faults, and to contemplate and pay respect. To worship the Buddha, we must first know how to set up a Buddhist shrine correctly and reverently.

Where to place the shrine

The Buddhist shrine should be placed in a solemn, well-lit and clean spot — usually the highest and most dignified place in the home. It must be dusted and swept regularly so that it always remains pure.

How to arrange the shrine

When setting up the shrine, arrange the offerings in a solemn order as follows:

• The image or statue of the Buddha is placed at the center, at the highest point of the shrine.
• The incense burner is placed in front of the Buddha-image.
• Two flower vases and two lamps (candles) are placed evenly on either side.
• If possible, add a plate of fruit and a cup of clean water.

In addition, a bell (chuông) and a wooden fish drum (mõ) may be placed on the shrine: the bell on the right and the wooden drum on the left (as seen facing the shrine). The Buddhist scriptures may be kept on the shrine or on a separate small table.