Alms Giving

In our religion and Culture, Almsgiving holds a special place, and we practice it occasionally. Mainly it's for the Monks and Spiritual Leaders, elders, needy persons, children, or even animals. There are many reasons behind this noble act according to the situation. Anyway, the most common one is for the remembrance of departed loved ones. In Buddhism, we believe that it will transfer merit and ensure a peaceful journey for them in their next life.

So, yesterday our family members gathered together for an almsgiving ceremony for my brother-in-law’s father. He left the world around 18 years ago due to sickness. As I said as a practice, we do this mainly in 07 days, 03 months, and after one year of the departure. Then after that, we can continue every year according to the wishes and abilities of the family members.

First, we invited 12 monks from the nearby temples to participate weeks earlier. It was a small ceremony at the house, so there were not many big decorations. We washed the house and arranged the necessary seatings, and essential food items, eightfold Requires (Ata pirkara), and everything in the previous day.

The alms we prepared

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We planned the almsgiving for lunch. In Buddhism, monks usually take lunch before 12.00 clock. So, we gathered early in the morning and were busy preparing the alms. We included rice and many traditional dishes, fruits, sweets, etc. As a tradition, we never consume them before offering them to Lord Buddha.

Offering to the monks

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The monks arrived around 11:00 a.m. We began by worshiping together, and the monks led us in chanting. The first meals were offered to Lord Buddha, as a gesture of respect and gratitude and then we served the monks their meal. It's a heart-warming, and peaceful scenery to watch amidst all the things going on in life.

Offering eightfold Requires

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We were busy with satisfying the necessary needs. After the meals, and desserts we serve the essentials to the monks in day-to-day life. Robes, a belt, a needle and a thread, an alms bowl, a cloth filter, and a shaving knife are the 08 Requires. Everything was given to the head monk, and a few other things to other monks arrived. And to the temple, pillows, broom, and ekle broom, and umbrella, bed sheet,s and a few other things were provided.

So, after that, a small sermon was given, and collectively prayed and transferred merit to the Father. The closest family members became somewhat emotional at the moment.

So, it was a meaningful and satisfying day after all. May he rest in peace!

So, that's it for today!! Until the next time! Enjoy!

Thank you.
Best Regards!