What is dana?
Dana, or generosity, is the first of the ten paramis, or qualities of character, that the Buddha taught his students to cultivate. The practice of generosity develops lovingkindness and compassion, deepens awareness of our interconnectedness and encourages non-attachment.
One of IMS’s deepest aspirations is to share the Buddha’s teachings with all who are interested, regardless of their ability to pay. Because of this wish, we offer a sliding scale retreat fee structure.
However, the income we receive from these fees covers less than 50% of our operating costs. To balance our budget and to provide wise stewardship of our resources, we rely on donations to supplement retreat fee income.
In whatever form you choose to give, we thank you for your support.
Generosity: The Foundation of the Spiritual Path
IMS Co-Founders Sharon Salzberg and Joseph Goldstein discuss how generosity is not just a single event, but a conscious practice, a quality in our minds and heart, that we can develop.
The Joy of Practicing Generosity
Joseph and Sharon reflect on how giving cultivates lovingkindness for those to whom we are generous and adds a measure of happiness to the foundation of our meditative practice.
Generosity: Ways to Give
IMS Director of Development Leah Giles on the many ways to give to IMS—from teacher dana, core support, and monthly giving, to financial assistance support, meal dana, planned giving, and volunteering.
Teacher Dana: A Teacher’s Perspective
IMS teacher bruni dávila reflects on how a teacher’s reliance on dana, whatever is offered by yogis on retreat, serves as a reminder that “the Dharma is here and will continue to support us on the path to liberation.”
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Want to learn more? Read “Generosity as Spiritual Practice: A Q&A with Sharon Salzberg and Joseph Goldstein,” here.
