The Meaning of Offerings

The meaning of "offering" is broad. It includes upholding the teachings, providing necessities, practicing in accordance with the teachings, showing respect, having faith and acceptance, prostrating, reciting scriptures, mindful recollection, and offering praise.

Arhats have eradicated all afflictions and self-grasping. Their minds transcend the realms of desire, form, and formlessness, making them foremost in the world. Thus, they are certainly worthy of offerings from humans and celestial beings. Bodhisattvas eliminate afflictions yet retain residual afflictions to benefit sentient beings, seeking self-benefit and the benefit of others, sacrificing themselves for all beings. They are even more worthy of offerings from humans and celestial beings. All sentient beings should make offerings to buddhas, bodhisattvas, and arhats, provided they have the capacity to offer and understand the act of offering. Even a dog can make offerings to buddhas, bodhisattvas, and arhats. Even fierce beasts like lions and tigers can make offerings by serving as guardians, attendants, or followers of buddhas, bodhisattvas, and arhats, showing respect, prostrating, and following their teachings—all these constitute offerings, bringing immeasurable merit. Even microorganisms fermenting food for buddhas and bodhisattvas constitute a form of offering, though microorganisms lack awareness and intention, so the merit they gain is minimal. Ghosts and spirits can also make offerings to the Three Jewels, planting seeds of merit in the field of the Three Jewels. Through the power of the Three Jewels' blessings, they can escape the evil destinies and attain the fruit of liberation.