Mindfulness Meditation · Generosity
This week’s meditation session is led by Michel Pascal and the theme is Generosity. The guided meditation begins at 18:39.
Mandala Offering Set; Central Tibet; mid 20th century; Gilt silver; Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art, Gift of Shelley and Donald Rubin; SC2012.7.1a-e
This traditional ritual object is a symbolic offering made by Buddhist practitioners presented to teachers or deities. The mandala represents the entire universe, and with this act of giving, the practitioner envisions offering all that is, both material and immaterial to the universe.
When a practitioner heaps rice, flowers, coins, and jewels onto each level of the set with both hands, they also symbolically offer the Three Jewels, namely their teachers, the teachings, and their community. This practice of giving opens our hearts and fosters a sense of appreciation and gratitude.
The mandala offering is conducted for the purpose of purification and the accumulation of merit. It is beneficial in training the mind to let go of attachment.
Through this practice, one develops a deeper understanding of the people, places, and material things that we cling to in this world. The repeated practice of mandala offering helps us to transcend attachment and achieve true freedom.
Michel Pascal, a meditation teacher for 25 years, has led successful programs for prisoners, which help prevent suicides and reduce reoffending. He’s written 20 books on spirituality, including Meditation for Daily Stress: 10 Practices for Immediate Well-Being. Known as “The Medicine Voice,” he’s performed at Carnegie Hall and played at the Peace Day Concert in Times Square in September 2023. In December 2023 he presented his methods at the United Nations.
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