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How to Invite the Activity Bell
When the big community bell (báo chúng) is invited, all talking stops immediately. Practitioners cease their activity, breathe in and out, and walk mindfully to the appointed place—sitting meditation, meals, Dharma Discussion, or Dharma Talk.
The proper invitation consists of:
- Seven brisk sounds to wake the bell
-
Three brisk sounds to summon the Sangha
– the first two strikes are close together, a wider pause, then the third
– each tone must be croustillant, carrying spiritual authority as the Buddha’s voice calling us to the Pure Land
Only those authorized by the abbot or approved by the teaching council—after proper training—may invite the bell, ensuring its tone sustains the peace and happiness of the entire Sangha.