Will I be punished for missing classes in a spiritual group? How should I view attendance pressure?

First consider whether you attend to learn and approach deities and Buddhas, or merely fear punishment for being absent. Groups naturally have rules. But if participation has become a major pressure, and one absence brings fear of divine punishment or being disliked, along with repeated demands to attend, reconsider what the group actually means to you.

At Sheng Zhen Men, we naturally hope students and disciples continue attending classes. Missing learning can gradually create a gap with friends who began together, and embarrassment may then make returning harder. But the loss I mean from not coming is missing learning, not punishment from deities and Buddhas for absence. Practice remains your own choice.

Different forms of participation can have different arrangements. Someone who only wishes to worship can be a devotee. Someone wanting to become a disciple should understand the learning and contribution agreed beforehand. At the time, disciples had monthly duties, explained before joining and accepted by everyone. This differs from threatening people to force daily attendance.

If your current participation creates great pressure, reconsider why you first came and what the place gives you. Choose a method and approach suited to what you want to learn. Even with extraordinary sensations, clarify whether you genuinely wish to learn in that way.

Religious activities also need balance with life. I have said that those wanting to draw close to deities can arrange visits on days off, without spending most of the year outside while neglecting work and home. Deities do not become unwilling to help simply because you missed this occasion. Encouraging action and learning at a centre differs from demanding daily attendance regardless of family.