The teachings and guidance shared by the community teachers at the Dharma Hub are offered in the spirit of generosity, the practice of dāna. “Dāna” is a Sanskrit and Pali word meaning “generosity” or “giving”. While Dāna is an ancient practice in Buddhadharma, it is still a cutting edge mode of operating in our modern western culture. The “pay from heart the heart” model is perhaps a modern manifestation.
It is traditional to give Dāna before the class starts as a symbol of aspiration and trust. You can also use the button below. By offering material and other kinds of dāna with an open heart, everyone benefits, particularly the giver. There is a Dāna bowl located at the entrance of any classes, one way to give Dāna.
Why has Dāna been the preferred historical choice? Charging a substantial fees for classes may limit access for some people and it also puts a monetary ‘value’ on what could be considered priceless teachings.
We encourage you to ask us about it and explore its meaning as a practice. We have found that by practicing with a healthy spirit of generosity, we deepen our own practice of trusting that there is ‘more than enough’, while supporting teachers to make these healing teachings and tools available to all.
NOTE: The Dharma Hub charges a small administration fee for some classes, but this fee does not go to the teacher. The fee contributes to the sustainability of the space and to bringing other teachers to Calgary.
Give Dāna Online:
Further Reading:
- What is Dana? by Catherine Pawasarat.
- Spiritual Energy Traders: On Giving & Receiving, Trust & Capitalism by Doug Duncan and Catherine Pawasarat.