Would it be offensive...

[Hickersonia]

I've now visited this particular Vietnamese temple twice and I'm very interested in learning the chanting / prayers that are used, not just to the point of pronouncing them well (although I've been asked if I know Vietnamese already because I apparently didn't do too awful bad at it, LOL) but to the point where I can memorize some of them and understand their meanings.

I'm already doing this with certain chants in Pali, thanks to Wat Metta's comprehensive online resources in text and audio.

Thing is, I have not been able to find any similar resources from a Vietnamese source... so I'm curious if it would likely be offensive if I asked how I could obtain a copy of the book from which we have all been reciting for the purposes of both learning the basic format, translating, and eventually memorizing some of it? I'm not really looking for them to give me one, mind you, but to know who to contact so that I can buy one myself.

Is this wholly inappropriate or would it (hopefully) be seen in the way I intend it -- admiration and intense desire to learn?

Thanks in advance for any replies.

[Kaji]

I don't think that is offensive at all. Wanting to learn should be a very welcomed thing.

[Virgo]

Hi Hickersonia,

It shouldn't be a problem at all. Just let them know your intentions. They will probably think it is great.

Have a good day.

Kevin

[lobster]

Virgo is right, civility and polite enquiry work wonders in most cultures . . .

[Hickersonia]

Great. I'm glad that it sounds like the sorta thing that wouldn't be misunderstood.

[xtracorrupt]

Nope, just make sure it doesn't interfere with ur happiness or the happiness of other people

[xtracorrupt]

Please delete my ignorant reply. Please excuse its uselessness

[kirtu]

I've now visited this particular Vietnamese temple twice and I'm very interested in learning the chanting / prayers that are used, not just to the point of pronouncing them well (although I've been asked if I know Vietnamese already because I apparently didn't do too awful bad at it, LOL) but to the point where I can memorize some of them and understand their meanings.

I'm already doing this with certain chants in Pali, thanks to Wat Metta's comprehensive online resources in text and audio.

Thing is, I have not been able to find any similar resources from a Vietnamese source... so I'm curious if it would likely be offensive if I asked how I could obtain a copy of the book from which we have all been reciting for the purposes of both learning the basic format, translating, and eventually memorizing some of it? I'm not really looking for them to give me one, mind you, but to know who to contact so that I can buy one myself.

From my limited experience at Vietnamese temples, the priest/monk at the temple would probably be very helpful and happy to help you with this. There are also certainly laypeople who know the chants very well and can help you with this as well.

Kirt