According to the Buddhist monastic code, monks and nuns are not allowed to accept money or even to engage in barter/trade with lay people. They live entirely in an economy of gifts. One gives what is appropriate to the occasion and means.
For a monastic the bowl represents opportunity given to practice the Dhamma in accordance with their means. This practice is a reminder that asking for basic necessities from householders is not an individual matter, But engages the entire community into the art of giving without pride. Thereby slowly instilling the quality of non-attachment to tangible objects among the society.
Having said this, personally I do not support giving money to beggars. Per our scriptures and the glorious Hindu ways, giving knowledge is considered the most valuable gift, second comes the gift of food and lastly is the gift of money. When confronted by a beggar asking for money, I usually buy some edible food and offer it to them. Also several non-profit organizations empower the needy with skills, training and point them in the direction of becoming financially independent.
NPO helping the poor:
Links to some articles:
No comments:
Post a Comment