The ancient meditation known as the ‘the magical practice of taking and giving’ is a profound method to:

 

• transform our suffering into a tool to help others
• purify our negative karma
• make our mind strong and resilient 
• develop universal compassion
• eventually attain enlightenment

 

In this episode, we learn how to do this practice formally, seated, as well as in daily life. This practice can be done with our eyes open, whenever we see someone suffering. It can help us make our own suffering meaningful and easier to bear, and even purify the karmic causes of it. 

 

Practicing what one shouldn’t, 

Not practicing what one should, 

Having abandoned the goal, 

Clinging to what is dear, 

One comes to envy those who practice. (209)*

—Buddha, The Dhammapada

 

References

 

Buddha. The Dhammapada, translated by Gil Fronsdale. (2011). Shambala, pp. 56.