dana

Posted on June 28, 2011 by norma

I am reading the Autobiography of Bhante G. and came upon this lovely metaphor. I wanted to share it.


Anyone who gives gifts is practicing generosity.

The givers receive as much, if not more, than the recipients because they are practicing dana, or generosity. It is the antidote to greed and attachment.


Practice dana whenever and where ever possible;
Just as a pot is filled with water,
If overturned by anyone,
Pours out all its water,
And does not hold back.
Even so, when you see those in need,
Whether low, middle or high,
Then give like the overturned pot,
Holding nothing back.


How clear is that? Giving does not need to be complicated.