“Before giving, the mind of the giver is happy; while giving, the mind of the giver is made peaceful; and having given, the mind of the giver is uplifted.”
Lord Buddha
Dana, originating from the Pali language, translates to generosity or giving. It’s more than just material offerings; it encompasses giving of one’s time, energy, skills, and resources without expecting anything in return.
In Buddhist tradition, Dana is considered one of the most essential virtues, embodying the spirit of compassion and interconnectedness.
The practice of Dana holds profound significance in Buddhist philosophy:
Monastic regulations require the Sangha community to finish eating the daily meal by noon. The Buddha Puja and meal offering will start at 11.30 am.
If you have cooked food to offer, please deliver the food to BMV kitchen by 7.00 AM for breakfast and by 11.00 AM for lunch to allow the kitchen staff enough time to arrange your offerings.
If you are planning to bring several dishes, it would be appreciated if you can inform the BMV Admin office in advance.
Sharing a cooked food offering is a traditional and cherished practice in Buddhist communities. You can prepare a delicious meal with sincerity and offer it to the monks, nuns, or fellow practitioners during communal gatherings or ceremonies. Your offering not only nourishes the body but also symbolizes the nourishment of the spirit.
If you prefer, you can offer non-cooked food items such as fruits, nuts, grains, or other perishable goods. These offerings provide sustenance and support to the temple community while honoring the principles of simplicity and mindfulness.
In addition to food offerings, you may offer such as medicines, or other necessities. These offerings contribute to the temple's ambiance, rituals, and daily operations, enhancing the spiritual environment for all who visit.
Monetary donations are another meaningful way to support the temple and its activities. Your financial contributions help cover operating expenses, maintenance costs, educational programs, and charitable endeavors. Every donation, regardless of size, makes a significant impact and is deeply appreciated.
