The Meaning and Scope of Offering

The meaning of offering is broad: upholding the teachings is an offering, providing necessities is an offering, practicing according to the teachings is an offering, respect is an offering, faith and acceptance are offerings, prostrations are offerings, reciting scriptures is an offering, mindful recollection is an offering, and praise is an offering.

Arhats have completely severed afflictions and self-grasping; 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 all beings and celestial beings in the world. Bodhisattvas eradicate afflictions but retain residual afflictions to benefit sentient beings, seeking self-benefit and benefiting 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. Lions and tigers can also make offerings by serving as guards and attendants to Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Arhats, showing respect and prostrations, and following their teachings—all these are offerings that bring immeasurable blessings. Even bacteria fermenting food for Buddhas and Bodhisattvas constitute a form of offering, though bacteria lack awareness and intention, so the merit they gain is minimal. Ghosts and spirits can certainly make offerings to the Three Jewels, planting seeds of merit in the field of the Three Jewels. Through the blessing power of the Three Jewels, they can escape the evil destinies and attain the fruit of liberation.