<p>We will be attending this special day for my nephew. Anyone have insights on this tradition and its symbolism? I am wondering what type of gift might be appropriate. Thanks.</p>
<p>Goodness.</p>
<p>You’ll find out, won’t you. And you’ll have to come back and report to all of us!</p>
<p>This is what I found in a Google search.</p>
<p>Considering that appreciation is one of the main values of Buddhism, I’m sure that any gift that you give would be welcome. </p>
<p>“Baby-blessing Ceremony:
Baby-blessing Ceremony: During this ceremony, in which new infants are welcomed into the Sangha (body of believers), the parents and two Dharma guardians promise to help the child attain its fullest potential. The child is asked to care for the parents, who have given it the precious gift of life.”
[Sotoshu</a> Social Work](<a href=“http://www.sotozen-net.or.jp/kokusai/friends/zf15_2/ssw.htm]Sotoshu”>http://www.sotozen-net.or.jp/kokusai/friends/zf15_2/ssw.htm)</p>
<p>"
My DP has Buddhist parents and extended family. And what happens in their culture is the mother and child rest and not leave the house for the first 30days after birth. Than on the 30th day that have a ‘blessing’ ceremony. The elders came to our house with offerings (a bbq’ed pig, sweet rice, fruit etc) and incence and said ‘prayers’ and blessed our baby and our new family. Then we had a big luncheon with all the family for them to meet the new baby and give us lucky money and gifts. "</p>
<p>“Had the ceremony today!!
It took maybe about half an hour.
We began with burning a stick of incense each, then moved on to chanting…the same chant three times…then another…(I wish we were able to keep the booklet but we weren’t) then another longer chant…sorry that my details are a little sketchy.
Then we all read a prayer together for the child’s wisdom health and prosperity and so on and so forth.
More chanting…(must say the monks chanting is so beautiful and musical…)
I gave up the chant after I got lost…about 2 seconds into it actually!!!
Anyhow…then that was it!! We took lots of pics…they took lots if picture…O was very well behaved and even did his own chanting at the close of the ceremony which was just gorgeous!
He was given a Blessing Certificate…and the Boss lady came and congratulated and blessed him too.
It was a huge day.
We hired a Tarago and shoved 6 of us in it.
My folks went away for the w’end…and I didn’t hear squeak from my sister…(I’d say my mother tipped her off!!!).
Afterward we had the visitor come back to my parents house and we organised Lebanese catering which was fabulous too!
Everyone is gone now and I am so full of baklava and exhausted!!”</p>