The Meaning and Scope of Offering

The meaning of puja (offering) is broad. Upholding the teachings is puja; providing necessities is puja; practicing according to the teachings is puja; showing respect is puja; having faith and acceptance is puja; prostrating is puja; reciting scriptures is puja; mindful recollection is puja; and offering praise is puja.

Arhats have eradicated all afflictions and self-attachment. Their minds transcend the realms of desire, form, and formlessness, making them supreme in the worldly realm. Thus, they are certainly worthy of offerings from humans and devas in the world. Bodhisattvas have eliminated afflictions but retain residual kleshas to nurture sentient beings, benefiting themselves and others while sacrificing themselves for all beings. They are even more worthy of offerings from humans and devas. All sentient beings should make offerings to Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Arhats, provided they have the capacity to offer and understand the practice of offering. Even a dog can make offerings to Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Arhats. Lions and tigers can also make offerings by serving as guards and attendants to Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Arhats, showing respect, prostrating, and following their teachings—all these constitute puja, bringing immeasurable merit. Even bacteria fermenting food for Buddhas and Bodhisattvas is a form of puja, though bacteria lack awareness and intention, thus gaining very little merit. Ghosts and spirits can also make offerings to the Triple Gem, planting seeds of merit in the field of the Triple Gem. Through the empowering force of the Triple Gem, they can be liberated from the lower realms and attain the fruit of liberation.