Offering a Kata-preparation for Rinpoche's visit Aug 19
Offering a Kata ~ preparation for Rinpoche's visit Aug 19
A kata is a traditional offering scarf. The idea of presenting a kata is to make an offering to the teacher. It is most beneficial if we can think that offering this scarf represents offering entire universes of everything good to our teacher and all holy beings. It is most beneficial to think we are offering the scarf and not expecting to receive it back as a blessing. While our kind teachers usually do offer the scarf back as a blessing, this is not always the case. From our side, it is best if we do not expect the scarf to be returned. Keeping this in mind can be helpful.
Traditionally, the kata is held with one's palms together, the scarf laying across the pointer fingers with one's thumbs on top. The kata is usually folded in half length-wise. If the opening is towards the teacher, you wish to be open to the teachings; if the fold is towards the teacher, you wish to remain close to the teacher until enlightenment.
Katas are available for sale at our Bookstore until it closes week of August 14.
