The Meditation Bell

The Zen Buddhist emphasis on the Temple Bell as a Mindfulness lesson teaches us how to cultivate that peacefulness when we hear noises that might otherwise cause stress. It is a meditation unto itself to learn and appreciate the proper ringing of the bell because as the bell resounds, you blend into the sound and become the Bell. 

As before any ritual, the Gatha Prayer is recited, for focus ... followed by a light tap warm-up ring of the bell before the actual intended sounding: 

My body, speech and mind in perfect 

​Oneness I send my heart along with the sound of the bell 

May the Hearer awaken from forgetfulness and 

Transcend all anxiety and sorrow. 

Gassho!