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A question about donation in temples

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Shokai

PostPosted: Sat May 20, 2006 11:17 am


In temples, sometimes one sees donation boxes. Is it obligatory to donate? Because the Chinese temple I went to has little donation boxes (but I dont remember them forcing others to donate) I mean, You can donate but you dont have to. They have a variety of free Dharma books theree, and a donation there. My teacher (who was conducting the field trip) said that even though these books are free, it would be nice if you can make a little donation. And On the books it says "Your donations will be used for further prints of Dharma books, that way we can keep them free for everyone" something like that, I dont remember word for word. The Amitabha Buddhist society sends material to people for free, and they dont accept a penny (People from E-sangha told me, so I am trying it myself).

So does one necessarily have to donate? Well, I think it is pretty self explanatory since it says "Donation" because it is optional. I just dont want to be doing something if the money goes for the wrong reason like some others Controversies (I wont say cults) ask you or make you give them money and promise salvation.

Any thoughts? Thanks

Amituofo
PostPosted: Sun May 21, 2006 6:32 am


I shouldn't think it was necessary; it is, to me, like any other thing in relation to donations to a temple: you give what you can, and if you can't afford to/don't feel right about it, don't. 3nodding

Cranium Squirrel
Captain

Friendly Trickster


Akanishi Makoto
Vice Captain

PostPosted: Sun May 21, 2006 11:32 pm


You should never be forced to pay for the Dharma. That's something that struck me as very... odd to do.

Feel compelled to give out of Dana, not out of obligation.
PostPosted: Mon May 22, 2006 1:27 pm


I always give money to my temple when visiting them, just because I am so glad to see a Buddhist temple so close to my house. I like to do what I can to make sure the Dharma is spread. Though it is optional obviously.

Travispatra


Shokai

PostPosted: Mon May 22, 2006 3:08 pm


So it is completely ok if I walk into a temple with no money?
PostPosted: Mon May 22, 2006 5:23 pm


ღஐღ
Shokai
So it is completely ok if I walk into a temple with no money?

Absolutely okay. If anyone tells you otherwise, just ignore them (or calmly explain to them why that is simply untrue). 3nodding

om mani padme hum
om tare tuttare ture svaha

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Tenzin Chodron
Crew


Shokai

PostPosted: Fri May 26, 2006 8:22 am


Heh thanks all!
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Loving Kindness: A Buddhism Guild

 
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