Before and After practice.

 The word ‘merit’ is used quite often in Buddhism. It is a word that represents meritous actions… which create good karma…which creates fortunate circumstances in which to practise…which deepens our practice. However, one cannot hold onto this merit, as that very holding creates bad karma.

Before any practice, it is beneficial to remember to appreciate the precious teachings on the nature of mind, the author of those teachings, and the community that upholds the teachings. These are known as the “three jewels”. Without them, one’s true nature would not be known: it would remain hidden. This inspire us to be part of these awakened lineages.

Then after the practice, we dedicate all merit acquired to the benefit of all sentient beings, reminding us of compassion for those who are suffering.

(By doing this, one is appreciating the Dharma, and wishing that all beings find liberation from their suffering. However, when it comes to using formal words…it can sound like a religion, and this may feel uncomfortable for some. Word are only symbolic of what the heart feels. Some may take ritual as their main support, and there can be an inner conflict when you encounter this. This is merely their way.)

Different traditions use different words. What is important is the right intention. For years, I just wished people well. Whatever practices we do, we never forget compassion – that is the safe guard to personal pride.

Here is a simple example of an aspirational prayer:

We commence with:
In the Buddha, the Dharma and Sangha
I take refuge until enlightenment.
By the merit of practising the paramitas (the six perfections)
May I attain buddhahood for the benefit of all beings.

And end with a dedication:
By this merit may we obtain omniscience.
Having defeated the enemy, wrongdoings,
May we liberated all beings from the ocean of existence,
With its stormy waves of birth, old age, sickness and death.

NB. At the back of our mind we may think, “Well, if I give all my merit away, what does that leave me with?!” A. Compassion!