Dana

DanaDana is a Sanskrit and Pali word meaning generosity or giving. In Buddhism, it also refers to the practice of cultivating generosity. Ultimately, the practice culminates in one of the Perfections (paramitas): the Perfection of Giving (dana-paramita). This can be characterized by unattached and unconditional generosity, giving and letting go.

Giving is essential to Buddhism. Giving includes charity, or giving material help to people in want. It also includes giving spiritual guidance to those who seek it and loving kindness to all who need it. However, one’s motivation for giving to others is at least as important as what is given.

Alms giving is very common practice and usually done at the break of dawn when Buddhist monks begin their alms rounds. Laypeople are required to prepare food and water and wait for the monks to approach them with their alms bowl.

Dána Bố thí

buddha monk

buddha monk