WHAT IS DANA?
"How much does it cost to come to a retreat at Bhavana Society? There is no set fee. If there is no set fee, how can you operate?"
We are frequently asked the "suggested" donation for retreats at Bhavana Society Meditation Center. We cannot answer this question because that would be tantamount to setting a price. The Buddha's teachings are "priceless". So we offer services for "dana". What is "dana"? Its simplest meaning is "generosity."
We practice "dana" by offering the Buddha's teachings without a pricetag. Participants can practice "dana" by making a donation of money, time, and/or labor. DONATIONS ALLOW US TO CONTINUE OFFERING THE TEACHINGS TO OTHERS. This center was built and is maintained ONLY by the generosity of those who value the teachings.
Along with "sila" (virtuous behavior) "dana" is considered essential to building a strong foundation where wisdom can arise through meditation. It is through the practice of "dana" that we learn to let go of greed (be it intense or subtle).
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