Spiritual Cultivation and Movement
May I recite in a small studio room or while taking transport?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
You can recite scriptures in your room. In a small studio, living space is naturally limited. Using the same space for sleep and daily activities does not make recitation there disrespectful to deities and Buddhas. What needs attention is whether you can concentrate during recitation and whether your attitude is respectful.
I once recounted Master Sheng Yen’s explanation of walking, standing, sitting and lying down: in everyday life, we can remember the scriptures and the virtues of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. Wearing prayer beads also serves to remind us not to forget our practice. However, when actually reciting scriptures, I still recommend finding a quiet place without interruptions so that we can concentrate.
When walking, riding a bicycle or driving, keep your attention on the road first. At those times you need to watch traffic and avoid collisions or falls. It is difficult to concentrate on these things while reciting at the same time, so I do not recommend distracting yourself with recitation then.
If you are a passenger on a bus or metro and are not responsible for driving, you can use that time to recite when it is safe and you can concentrate. Consider whether you can peacefully do your practice in the actual circumstances. There is no need to begin by creating an absolute taboo for every location.