Introduction to Offering Saṅghadāna
Generosity is the mark of a wise man. The discerning will choose the right time and the very best of food and drink to offer to those monks who lead a celibate life. They are fertile fields of merit who yield the highest of fruits for the giver. By offering food to monks, you are giving them five qualities of life: longivity, good complexion, good health, strength and wisdom. Thus, he who gives shall receive these qualities of life in return. Merit alone can be our refuge. Thus, without further ado, all listeners are invited to repeat, after the congregation representative, the verses for the offering of a midday meal as saṅghadāna together.
Offering General Saṅghadāna
Imāni mayaṃ bhante, bhattāni, saparivārāni, bhikkhusaṅghassa, oṇojayāma, sādhu no bhante, bhikkhusaṅgho, imāni, bhattāni, saparivārāni, paṭiggaṇhātu, amhākaṃ, dīgharattaṃ, hitāya, sukhāya, nibbānāya ca.
(On this occasion,venerable monks, we seek your permission, to offer this meal to the monastic community, together with its associated gifts. May the monastic community, receive this meal and these gifts from us, for our everlasting benefit, happiness and attainment of Nirvana.)
