Download Dāna

• Dāna can be translated as generosity and is used to
refer to any act that is performed with an unselfish
attitude and a positive view of giving.
• It is an important aspect of Buddhism as it outlines the
relationship that exists between the laity and the
monastic community (Saṅgha).
• It is also important as it is one of the Three Bases of
Merit as outlined in the Puññakiriyavatthu Sutta (A IV
146) along with ethical conduct (sīla) and
cultivation/meditation (bhāvana).
Merit (puṇya/puñña) is an important concept within
Buddhist thought. It is what is accumulated through good
and wholesome deeds. The production of merit is important
as it can have positive effects on the lives of individuals,
generate desirable rebirths and also allow one to access
higher levels of spiritual attainment.
• For the laity dāna represents their support of the Saṅgha.
• The laity supports the Saṅgha by providing material
support such as giving monks food on their alms round,
donations of robes and the eight requisites, and money to
support the monastery.
Monks
receiving a
gift of new
robes at a
funeral in
Laos (2007).
• The Saṅgha receive the gifts of the laity. In doing so they
act as a ‘field of merit’. In order to be a field of merit the
monk must live by the monastic rules that are set in the
vinaya.
• The more spiritually advanced the monk is the bigger
their field of merit is. This serves to make the monks work
towards becoming worthy recipients of the gifts of the
laity.
• The amount of merit is relative to spiritual advancement
and not ordination.
• The Saṅgha are also expected to act with generosity.
• In return for material support from the laity, the Saṅgha
must provide spiritual support. This is achieved through
teaching the Dharma/Dhamma to the lay community.
• It also means that when invited to give a blessing, chant
at funeral or attend a housewarming the Saṅgha is
obliged to send a representative.
A monk
receiving a gift
of food from a
member of the
lay community
in Myanmar
(2009).