Dana Paramita: The Perfection of Giving

Dana or generosity is the first of the perfections or paramitas, the excellent or noble qualities of an awakened being. In Buddhism, one important expression of this quality is takuhatsu, the Zen practice of offering dana to wandering mendicants. Harking back to the time of the Buddha when monks begged for their daily meal in return for chants or blessings, this exchange is also a reminder of the symbiotic relationship between monastics and lay practitioners, teachers and students—a relationship without which Buddhism would not exist today.

Although the dharma itself is priceless, Buddhist teachers (lay and monastic), temples, monasteries, and centers all still rely on the generosity of practitioners whose support makes possible the widespread dissemination of the teachings. If you would like to aid the operations of the Ocean Mind Sangha or the work of its Guiding Teacher, Zuisei, please consider making a secure donation below. Know that even small gifts allow us to devote time and resources to our work. (If you want to support Zuisei personally, please indicate that in the donation form).

If you’re interested in working with Zuisei but aren’t ready to become a formal student, explore OMS’s Patron option. Alternatively, join us for one of our Saturday sits, where you can meet with Zuisei in daisan, a short private meeting with the teacher.

Thank you, always, for your practice and generosity.

 *Banner photo by Ekarin Apirakthanakorn