Dana: Giving and Getting in Pali Buddhism

DETAILS : 

• Author :by Ellison Banks Findly
  
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Motilal Banarsidass Publishing House
  
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ January 1, 2024
  
• Edition ‏ : ‎ First Edition
  
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
  
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 448 pages
  
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9359033022
  
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-9359033020
  
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 650 g 

ABOUT THE BOOK

Dāna: Giving and Getting in Pali Buddhism by Ellison Banks Findly is a scholarly exploration of the practice of generosity (Dāna) within early Theravada Buddhism, based on an extensive analysis of the Pali Canon. The core philosophy of this text revolves around examining Dāna not merely as a simple act of charity, but as a foundational, multi-dimensional religious economy and spiritual virtue that sustains the symbiotic relationship between the monastic community (Sangha) and the lay householders. Findly thoroughly investigates the dynamic reciprocity of giving—where lay supporters offer material sustenance (food, robes, shelter, medicine) to monastics, and in return receive spiritual teachings (Dhamma), ethical guidance, and spiritual merit (Puñña). Analyzing textual accounts, social dynamics, and psychological dimensions of giving, the author reveals how Dāna serves as the essential groundwork for cultivating non-attachment, purifying intention, and advancing along the Noble Eightfold Path.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ellison Banks Findly is a distinguished scholar, professor, and author specializing in Asian religions, Buddhist studies, and Indian history. Holding the position of Professor of Religion and International Studies at Trinity College (Hartford, Connecticut), her research focuses on early Buddhist ethics, ritual practices, and women in Indian religious traditions. Writing with rigorous textual scholarship, social-historical insight, and analytical clarity, Findly’s work bridges philological analysis of primary scriptures with sociological understanding, making significant contributions to the academic study of early Theravada Buddhism.