OFFERING FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A STUPA
In worldly matters, people often say: “An cư lạc nghiệp”—“To settle peacefully is the foundation of success.” A stable and supportive place is essential for any lasting endeavor. But what about in the realm of the Triple Gem—the Buddha, the Dhamma, and the Saṅgha?
After the Blessed One entered Parinibbāna, the noble disciples erected stupas to enshrine his relics—both to preserve his legacy and to sow the seed of awakening for future generations. A stupa is not only a symbol of the path to liberation, but also a sacred site where Buddhists come to pay homage, purify the mind, strengthen their faith, and form wholesome connections with the Triple Gem. Moreover, it serves as a spiritual sanctuary where monastics and laypeople alike can gather to study, practice, and uphold the Dhamma.
To build a stupa is a profoundly sacred deed—an expression of deep reverence for the Buddha, the Dhamma, and the Saṅgha. Accordingly, the merit accrued from such an offering is vast and enduring.
In the Dānānisaṁsa Sutta (Aṅguttara Nikāya, Pañcaka Nipāta), the Buddha taught that a generous giver receives five benefits, both in this life and beyond:
1. They become beloved and respected by many.
2. The wise and virtuous draw near and offer guidance.
3. Their good reputation spreads far and wide.
4. They remain committed to the layperson’s spiritual path.
5. Upon passing, they are reborn in the heavenly realms due to their wholesome deeds.
Especially meritorious is the act of offering Upassaya Dāna—constructing and dedicating monastic dwellings, temples, or stupas to support the community of monks from the four directions. This is known as a Long-lasting Offering (Pāli: Dighadhamma Dāna).
A Long-lasting Offering is one that endures across time and space. As long as the offering remains, so too does its merit—growing day and night, bringing continuous benefit, joy, and peace to both giver and countless beings.
