THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE PRACTICE OF ALMS ROUND
Caller: In the past, the practice of begging for alms by monks was also known as ‘the conditions or opportunities for transformation’. A fellow cultivator would like to know whether the ‘opportunities for transformation’ in this context means to sprinkle the seeds of dharma onto sentient beings so that their affinity with Buddhism will be established?
Master Jun Hong Lu: ‘The conditions or opportunities for transformation’ actually denotes bringing into effect a ‘general transformation’ of the masses, including you and me. Just like the culture of a society. Why did the Buddha encourage begging for alms? Because in the past, many of the Sangha members were aristocrats or had royal lineage. Do you think it was easy for them to get over their pride, carrying a bowl, knocking on doors and begging for food?
The practice of alms round compelled them to do so. Those who cannot let go of their ego are haughty and arrogant. How can such people become Bodhisattvas? Similarly, knocking on doors creates an opportunity for the common people to perform meritorious deeds.
By offering alms food, don’t you think you have a generous heart? Don’t you think it is a reflection of the compassion in you? How can you practise Buddhism if you are not even compassionate? Such are the dual intentions behind begging for alms.
Caller: Understood. Thank you, Master.
Source: Wenda20200821 16:02, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program