What is dana?

In the teaching of the Buddha, 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. In the Pali suttas the ‘talk on giving’ (danakatha) was invariably the first topic to be discussed by the Buddha. He would start by emphasizing the value of giving. One of the practices that the Buddha highly recommended was that of generosity – dana in Pali. The practice of giving also figures as the first of the three bases of meritorious deeds, as the first of the four means of benefiting others, and as the first of the ten paramis or ‘perfections’. The latter are the sublime virtues to be cultivated by those following the 8-fold Path.

In early Buddhist times, the practice of dana primarily took the form of teachers practising generosity by offering the teachings for free, and recipients of the teachings practising generosity by offering material support to the teacher.  Many of the Bluegum teachers have been monks in the past or have spent prolonged periods in monastery environments and most have studied the dharma (Buddhist teachings) deeply. This is reflected in their teachings. Some are newer teachers who have completed courses, teacher training and continue to study. Every talk requires preparation and deep thinking. Dana represents our appreciation of the teachings. A very small amount goes to administration - the website and zoom.

In our modern times, we have a very different approach to giving and receiving. Modern life has become very transactional. Bluegum Sangha has chosen to follow the more traditional ways with a modern twist. At the in-house sessions, we have a dana basket which represents the bowls the early monks carried. We realise that many people are not carrying cash which creates limitations. Nor does the dana basket serve our Zoom community.

We use bank transfer mechanisms to offer dana. The bank details are made readily available in-house and online. Any new arrivals are most welcome to ask questions about dana and ensure that they have the bank details. Some transfer money weekly, monthly or sporadically. Electronic transfer means we can become detached from the giving itself which is meant to be a heartfelt expression of appreciation. Without dana, the teachers cannot provide the teachings we cherish. We need to guard against detachment from our giving. As you reflect on the teaching and its value to you, acknowledge the dana you have given or will give. This can be part of the mindfulness practice that we practise at Bluegum.

The question is always asked how much is appropriate. That question can only be answered by you. It is meant to be ‘within your means - if you have a little, you give a little; if you have a lot, you give a lot’. This is a standard answer you often hear. It is critical to remember that this is a core Buddhist practice and essential for the survival of all sanghas who rely on the teachers that serve us so well. Our sangha endeavours to make the process as easy as possible so you can fulfil this act of generosity with ease.