Report on Religious Field Research

Student: Jennifer

Course: World Religion

Section: REL 212

Assignment 2: Report on Religious Field Research

I find Buddhism to be a fascinating religion and chose to attend a service at Ekoji Buddhist Temple in Fairfax Station, Virginia. I attended the 11:00am service and upon arrival I was greeted by members of the congregation with warmth and acceptance. I was asked by the priest (leader of the sermons) if I needed any help and I explained to him that I was there doing field research for my World Religions class. He seemed pleased that I was open to the Buddha faith and told me that if I needed any help or had any questions I could speak to him or another member of the temple and that they would be happy to help me. I walked around the temple and saw a walking meditation path. It was a gravel path that one could walk in meditation any time and I was told that they do offer a group walking meditation on Thursday evenings. Next I went inside the temple and took off my shoes as is the custom when entering a temple. I found the inside to be beautiful. There were intricately carved statues and beautiful artwork on the walls. There was also a section of books and other items that one could purchase if desired. There was no sales person; only a box of money. If I wanted to buy anything, all I had to do was add up the cost and put the money in the box. I found this to be unusual but refreshing. They trusted people to do the right thing and be honest. That’s something you don’t see every day. At 11:00 I heard a large bell ringing indicating the beginning of the service. I entered and took a seat near the back so I could observe and take notes while not disturbing others. It was very quiet except for the bell. I could feel an energy around me that is difficult