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Perfection of generosity: Do we really own anything?

Perfection of generosity: Do we really own anything?

A series of teachings given by Venerable Thubten Chodron during a weekend retreat at Sravasti Abbey from September 2 to 5, 2022. The teachings were based on the text Nagarjuna on the Six Perfections.

  • How self-centered attitudes, such as greed, can contribute to various global crises
  • How we relate to objects and things that we call “my” or “mine”
    • Investigating how a monetary transaction is not a complete basis of ownership
    • How our sense of ownership may change from moment to moment, including a change from a strong desire to aversion to the same object
    • How the sense of “mine” can prevent us to develop impartial love and compassion for all
  • How we rely on others’ generosity to be able offer our services and to make a living
  • The perfection of generosity, as practiced by bodhisattvas
    • Giving impartially and equally to all beings, without discrimination, including animals
    • Giving without expecting a return, including benefits in future lives
    • Giving at any time and opportunity, instead of delaying generosity
  • Understanding the full potential of our practice, such as eliminating anger
    • Expanding limited views on our conventional potential and habits
Venerable Thubten Chodron

Venerable Chodron emphasizes the practical application of Buddha’s teachings in our daily lives and is especially skilled at explaining them in ways easily understood and practiced by Westerners. She is well known for her warm, humorous, and lucid teachings. She was ordained as a Buddhist nun in 1977 by Kyabje Ling Rinpoche in Dharamsala, India, and in 1986 she received bhikshuni (full) ordination in Taiwan. Read her full bio.