Free Nichiren Buddhism
Investigators said the fire was accidental and started in a closet used for storing incense and ashes. Garcia said the temple "improperly extinguished ceremonial materials, igniting other things in the closet."
Careful with those ceremonial materials, folks.
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5 comments
All -I truly hope that this incident did not result in injuries or death. I also hope that it doesn't result in Buddhists indulging in schadenfraude.....Namaste, Engyo
From Facebook:"Timothy Harada VanCampen Gianakos The end of the article says, "the cause of the fire is under investigation." I hope they are investigating the sutras for the cause. It's called "actual proof." Good thing it didn't happen in Japan or they would have claimed someone from the Soka Gakkai did it."
Ya vol. Shadenfraude ist der path to der lower vurld und der pointing von fingers.
The destruction this fire caused is really sad. I am glad no one was hurt.I cannot believe how hot my incense burner can get sometimes. I have been known to burn a bundle of three joss sticks horizontally on a bed of ash in the burner. Then, as I finish chanting, I light three more. Sometimes, there's an overlap, with six going at once. One time, I had to take the burner off the altar because I thought I could smell the altar starting to scorch.I've had a couple close calls with altar candles, too, mostly involving cats and children.This fire is a terrible reminder that we all need to be very careful with our candles and incense.I pity anyone who thinks this "proves" the righteousness of their sect versus Nichiren Shoshu. That's just twisted.
Perhaps you are already aware of this thread:http://groups.yahoo.com/group/...Further discussion and opinions related to the fire.I, too, am relieved that no one was injured.At my age, I find that the smoke from incense can be irritating at times, so I do not burn it every day. I feel it's important to stress that using or not using candles and incense is neither right nor wrong. We each have the latitude to exercise common sense and personal preferences.For example, some insist that a proper altar setup must include two candles. I use only one candle, and I don't always light it. I like my altar. I enjoy sitting in front of it. This is what's important, in my view.