Pagodas are particularly busy on the 1st and 15th days of lunar month. People come to pray for health and peace for their families. However, some spend a lot on offerings to pray for prosperity. This is considered as a misguided as Buddhism has nothing to do with earthly benefits.
“Buddhism doesn't give prosperity to anyone. We should only pray for health as having good health will help you create prosperity by your own hands. People should visit pagodas but it doesn't mean you should believe in superstitions”, said Most Venerable Thich Thanh Tuan - Vietnam Buddhist Sangha Central Executive Council.
According to researchers, many people misunderstand that worshipping Buddha is paying tribute to a specific person. Buddha is seen as a symbol of noble values. People need to put the effort in to succeed at something.
“Activities like trying to avoid 'bad luck' aren't suitable for pagodas. I think such activities are the opposite of Buddhist teaching”, said Researcher Tran Lam Bien.
Pagodas are seen as peaceful space for people to relax. Burning incense and thinking good thoughts. It has been said that pagodas should take more responsibility in educating people and Buddhists to avoid waste and contribute to preserving more enlightened beliefs.
