Dharma Wheel

one sets the altar above the waist level when one is standing or sitting? is necessary? why?

I was taught it’s waist high from standing position. It’s for respect and honoring the Buddha, etc.

It is a sign of respect. Putting it above us physically is like putting it above us mentally: we look up to it.
Christian churches do it, too, if you think about it.

I haven't heard of the "above waist height" rule before, but anything above our (standing) waist height will be at or above our (sitting) eye level, especially if we sit on the floor or on a cushion.


Kim

i see, thanks!

The thing is, it should be high in relation to low.
If it’s too high to really “function” that’s not too good either. As long as it’s not on the floor, high up is good.
Also, consider this photo. If you practice while sitting, then sitting level isn’t “disrespectful”.