|
For
2500 years, since the time
of the Buddha, Buddhist
monks have walked the Alms
Round. This practice
is said to create a field
of merit for all sentient
beings, an opportunity to
show the finer qualities
of the heart.
Freely giving
from a generous heart loosens
the grip of selfishness. Both
donor and recipient are
enriched by this practice.
We are very grateful to be
able to carry on this tradition
in Mount Shasta. We are
deeply indebted to the community
of Mount Shasta for allowing
us to practice the ancient
way of the Buddha.
|
|
Monks
from Shasta Abbey walk the
Alms Round once a month. The
sight of a monk was one
of the Four Sights that moved
Shakyamuni Buddha to renounce
the world and become a monk.
The Alms Round is a ceremony
of dana, selfless
giving, that is based on
reciprocal respect between
monastics and those who
live in the world.
|
|
During the Alms
Round, monks walk in silent
meditation. Donors approach
one of the monks and place
their gift in the Alms Bowl.
When making an
offering during an alms round,
donors can ask that the merit
therefrom benefit a friend
or relative, as well as sentient
beings caught in distressing
or difficult situations. We walk with
no expectations. May
all beings be well and free
from suffering.
|