More on the practice of dana

 

Dana is the first of the six paramitas, or qualities of character, that the Buddha taught his students to cultivate.

The Buddha said “If you can only practice one thing, then practice generosity.”

The Buddha also said “If you knew as I did the power of giving, you would not let a single meal go by without sharing it with another.”

The Buddha was able to make such strong and clear statements because he could see the many positive effects, like ripples, flowing out from each and every generous act.

When we are generous, the person who benefits most may very well be us. Through engaging in generous action, we

    • develop loving kindness and compassion
    • deepen our awareness of our interconnectedness and
    • encourage our own non-attachment.

Part of our ongoing practice with generosity is to contemplate each of the above points, including the statements made by the Buddha, in order to see these truths for ourselves.

Giving benefits both the giver and the receiver – the giver practices sharing and letting go, and the recipient practices acceptance of what is presented. Offering a small favor, a kind thought, a meal, or funds to help sustain a meditation teacher or center is a sincere form of spiritual practice.

One of the Zen Community of Oregon’s aspirations is to share the Buddha's teachings with all who are interested. We rely on the support of many in order to do this.

Whenever you are inspired to offer a donation, you join the community here in alleviating suffering and bringing greater wisdom and compassion to the world.

 

Zen Community of Oregon
P.O. Box 368
Clatskanie, OR 97016
(503) 728-0654
Email: info@zendust.org

©2006 Zen Community of Oregon
Updated: December 31, 2008
Site by Michelle Bagley