師尊曾經開示過作主祈人的功德在於出資建立壇場,讓眾人能夠有法會可參加。想想看,因為你願意負擔更多法會的開支,讓其他人可以隨喜贊助,令道場不致煩惱種種開銷。這是多高尚的情操,多大的功德。冥冥中,這表面上金錢的布施早已昇華成法施(令眾生得到佛法薰陶)和無畏施(為道場袪除憂煩、為其鼓勵)。這份情會讓你在現世、未來世裡增加助緣、增加貴人、增長與佛的法緣。
試想,有哪些發心方式既是財施,又是法施,更是無畏施?想來不多。作法會主祈人是一個。
Grand Master had once explained, the merit of being a primary supplicant of a ceremony lies in sponsoring the mandala of worship, allowing all to attend an auspicious event. Imagine your kindness to take on an increased share of the expenses to enable others to contribute what they can and quell the temple’s monetary worries.
Such a noble trait will generate immense merit. While imperceptible, the act of seemingly superficial “giving money” is elevated to “giving dharma teachings” (allowing others to be nurtured by Buddha dharma) and “giving protection from fear” (alleviating temple’s resource stain and provide encouragement). This sentiment of goodwill will be returned to you, in this and future lives, as the multiplication of your karmic affinity, unexpected help, and sustained connection with Buddha.
Can you think of a form of benefitting others that lets you “give money”, “give dharma teachings”, and “give protection from fears” all at once? Very few. But being a Primary Supplicant is definitely one.