Why do we place our palms together?
Placing one’s palms together at chest level is a traditional gesture to express deep reverence to the Triple Gem. When Buddhists greet one another, they hold their palms together like a budding lotus* flower. “I offer you a lotus, may you be enlightened soon!” This greeting acknowledges the seed of awakening or Buddhahood in the other person, and we wish one another well-being and happiness. Placing our palms together also has a focusing and calming effect on the mind.
So, next time you see a Venerable, Principal, teacher or fellow Buddhist friend, place your palms to greet them respectfully. In this way, you are also receiving well-wishes and respect in return.
* Lotus symbolizes purity of our nature
我们为什么合掌？
双手合掌置于胸前是一种对三宝表达深切敬意的传统手势。当佛教徒彼此问好时，他们将手掌合起来，好象初开的莲花一般，微俯下身，心中默念“送您一朵莲花*，愿您成佛”。这种问好表示我们见到对方圆满佛性（觉性的种子），并祝福对方美好快乐。双手合掌也可以让我们的心专注、平静。
所以，下次遇到师父、校长、老师和佛友时，请记得合掌敬礼哦！这样，你也同时受到他们向你问好和祝福。
* 莲花象征清净的本性