Paramitas

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Maitri and Upeksha form part of the Brahmviharas. Shila is an integral part of the noble eightfold path, as also Dhayana and Pragya. We have to therefore concern ourselves with the five remaining paramitas in which Dana occupies a very prominent place.

It is expected of an earnest Buddhist that he will try to contribute to the very limit of his endeavour towards the promotion of the common weal and welfare of all beings. For the achievement of this objective, he should  shirk no sacrifice and should be prepared to make and offering of all that he has.

The Jataka tales recount many brave acts of Dana and no opportunity is lost in bringing home the lesson that true and abiding happiness comes to those who delight in the act of giving and giving in abundance. Acquisitive tendencies on the other hand, are held in contempt.

Besides, the act of Dana has to be selfless and has to be more an offering than a charity. It must be done in a spirit of sincere humility. If Dana is done with aview to gain popularity, seek renown or obtain personal benefit, even spiritual merit, it loses all its virtue. It has to be an act of dedication for the well-being of all living beings and therefore any merit that may accrue from the act is to be also turned over for the benefit of the world.

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