The Practice of Almsgiving in Buddhism
The practice of almsgiving is an ancient and noble tradition in Buddhism. It is one of the most important practices for Monks and Nuns to create spiritual bonds with sentient beings through alms round—seeking offerings from lay people.
Alms round dates back to over twenty-five centuries at the time of the Buddha. He and His Sangha would hold alms bowls, stay in line in a hierarchical order and walk long distances once every morning to beg for alms from lay people of different families.
“Therefore, alms bowls of Monks are blessing bowls of all sentient beings. Although Monks go on alms round to maintain their lives, they help all sentient beings cultivate their field of merit. The ones who give alms to Monks will get a lot of blessings. Even if we give just a bit of rice, we will never suffer from hunger or be born in a poor family in many future lives. Hence, Buddha taught His disciples to hold their alms bowls for mendicancy” - Thay Thich Truc Thai Minh.
Let's watch the video below to understand more about the practice of almsgiving in Buddhism from Thay Thich Truc Thai Minh.
