“The practice of giving is universally recognised as one of the most basic human virtues, a quality that testifies to the depth of one’s humanity and one’s capacity for self-transcendence. In the teaching of the Buddha, too, the practice of giving claims a place of special eminence, one which singles it out as being in a sense the foundation and seed of spiritual development.”
Bhikkhu Bodhi

Dāna, the practice of giving, is often related to the quality of generosity (cāga).   The highlight here is not so much the physical act of transferring an object from one’s hands to another’s, but rather the inward transformation that gradually takes place as we experience the joy of giving, naturally loosening the knots of greed and hate, allowing us to feel happier and more at peace within.

On Wesak Day, 5 May 2012, Nalanda is hosting several events to encourage the practice of giving and develop the virtue of generosity.

Piṇḍacāra – Almsround (7 – 8am)

DID YOU KNOW that piṇḍa in the Pali language means “a lump of food, especially of alms”?  Pāta refers to “bowl” whereas cāra is “to move about”.  Hence piṇḍapāta is “food received in the alms bowl (of the bhikkhu)” whereas piṇḍacāra means “almsround, wandering for alms”.

Do come and participate in this meaningful act of offering food to the Sangha on this auspicious day!

Piṇḍacāra on Wesak Day, 2011

Blood Donation Campaign (10am – 5pm)

We take it for granted when we are in good health, yet, for those who are sick and are in need of blood, it is a matter of life and death.  There is no better time than this Wesak period to GIVE LIFE and perform a selfless act by donating blood to someone whose life may depend on it.

If you are in good health and would like to practise giving, come and help someone who is ill get well by giving one pint of blood during this Wesak Day!

Mass Food Offering (6 – 7pm)

Everyone is invited to contribute food, and practise serving the food!  This is a wonderful opportunity for us to come together as a Buddhist community, and enjoy engaging in meaningful service with family, friends and neighbours.  Volunteers are welcome to join in the preparation from 4pm.

Mass Food Offering during Wesak 2011

COME AND JOIN US in the practice of giving, and rejoice with the positive action.  If you would like to find out more about Nalanda’s Wesak programme or sign up to be a volunteer, please contact Sis. Buddhini at 012-295 5245 or Sis. Nandini / Sis. Sunanda at 03-8938 1500.