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Dana: the practice of generosity
The word dana means “generosity.” Generosity is an important part of Buddhist practice.
Where your money goes
Your gift helps people practice
All donations help Dhamma friends to move to a temple, or to become a monk or a nun.
Donations do not pay for the Foundation or for this website. Volunteers pay these costs.
To support a kalyanamitta, give to the kalyanamitta directly.
Why dana
How dana works
From the time of the Buddha until now, monks and nuns have not charged money for the Dhamma. They give the Dhamma as a gift. In return, lay people give food, robes, and medicine to the monks and nuns.
Today, many Dhamma courses in the West cost money. This fee can stop some people from practice.
Most kalyanamitta on our website do not charge a fixed price. Some listings ask for a fee. The Find page marks them clearly. Members give what they can. This generosity is also a practice. It makes generosity, honesty, and responsibility stronger.
“A giver is dear and loved by many people. Good people associate with them. They get a good reputation.”The Buddha · The Benefits of Giving, AN 5.35
Watch: Beth Upton on generosity
Beth Upton tells you about dana.
Other ways to give
- Give your time as a volunteer.
- Add a temple or a group to our map.
- Welcome new members to the community.
- Write a post about your practice.
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