What type of incense should I bring as an offering at a Buddhist temple?

by Kent

(Costa Mesa, CA)

A big incense holder at Todai-ji in Nara

The Question:

I’m new to Buddhism, and I plan to attend a Buddhist service in my city. I don’t know what type of incense to bring (powder, stick, cone, etc).

My answer:

Well, as often, my answer will be in two parts. I see that you are in California so I’m not sure about temples there. In Japan, most temples sell a bundle of joss-sticks for offerings. It serves two purpose: collect funds for the temple allow the worshipers to offer an offering to the Buddhas. They always have candles also. You can look at the picture above to give you an idea of what it looks like. Now, to answer your question, if your temple doesn’t have incense for sale, you should buy natural incense in the form of a joss-stick.

It is important to buy high quality incense because low quality incense has chemicals that can be harmful. If the incense burning vessel is indoor, and you bring patchouli incense, be certain that people will remember you but not fondly. The perfume should be subtle and neutral.

Japanese incense are perfect for this but alternatively you could get some Tibetan incense.Below are two of my favorite Japanese incense.  They are high quality and reasonably priced.  ( the one on the right is a little more expensive but it is what I use at home)