Wenda20151004A 05:33
(Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program)
NOT PRAYING FOR ANYTHING WHEN DOING RECITATIONS IS ACCUMULATING MERITS
Caller: Master Lu, you once said that we would generate the most merits if we don’t ask for anything specific before we perform scripture recitations. Some Buddhist practitioners will wake up in the morning and start doing their recitations without mentioning their names or making any wishes. Is this appropriate?
Master Jun Hong Lu: When you perform recitations without seeking anything in return but merely to fulfil your daily recitation commitment, you will gain great merits. If, for example, you are doing your recitation because of your upcoming exam, you are merely using the merits for a good exam result. When you do your daily recitation not seeking for anything, you would be accumulating merits. You would still easily pass the exam if your daily recitation is of high quality.
You will be compromising on the quality of your recitations if you keep pondering on the unfulfilled wishes. If you are not seeking for anything, it means you are free from desire. Otherwise you won’t set your mind at ease if you keep thinking “I have to solve this issue, I have to achieve this.” I will give you a simple example. It’s easier to become close friends with someone when you have no hidden agenda. When you encounter a problem and need his help one day, he will help you without hesitation. Isn’t it right?
Caller: Yes, that is right.
Master Jun Hong Lu: If you harbour selfish thoughts when you enter a friendship and try ways to win his favour by treating him to lunches and so on, he will naturally feel the pressure from you and will face the dilemma of whether to help you, right?
When you view from the above analogy, accumulation of merit is derived from non-seeking, which will be transmuted into merits eventually. This explains why we frequently refer to merits as an accumulation of virtuous deeds. When you are seeking something in return in the course of doing virtuous deeds, effectively you are converting merits into material blessings. Am I right?
Caller: Oh, I understand now. Thank you for answering my question, Master Lu.
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