How do we handle sutras?

We need to have respect for the Sutra as it contains the teaching of the saint and sages. Also, in ancient times, books were very hard to come by. Also, our great teachers risked their lives to walk from China to India to obtain these sutras.

• Do not place the sutra on the floor or on the praying cushion or dog-ear them.
• When holding a sutra while bowing, just raise the sutra to the eyebrow level. There is no need to bend the head and body (see the center photo below).
• When holding a sutra while prostrating, raise the sutra above head level when the head reaches the floor.

Prostration