The Two Paths to Bring Happiness to Others – Teachings of Buddha

The Two Paths to Bring Happiness to Others – Teachings of Buddha

Introduction: How Can We Make Others Happy?

Everyone desires to be happy and to bring happiness to those around them. But have you ever pondered the true way to make others genuinely happy? Buddhism teaches two paths for achieving this: Material Giving (Zai-se) and Dharma Giving (Ho-se).

This article delves into these two paths outlined by Buddha, exploring their meanings and the profound impact they can have on our lives.

1. Material Giving (Zai-se): The Path of Relative Happiness

What Is Material Giving?

Material Giving refers to sharing tangible benefits like money, goods, status, or health. It encompasses everything we consider essential for happiness in our daily lives.

Examples include:

• Financial aid or donations
• Medical treatment for the sick
• Offering encouragement and recognition
• Supporting family relationships and well-being

Such acts visibly impact others, earning gratitude and fostering love and respect.

Value and Limitations of Material Giving

While significant, Material Giving's effects are limited to one's lifetime. Wealth, fame, and health are all left behind when one passes away.

2. Dharma Giving (Ho-se): The Path of Absolute Happiness

What Is Dharma Giving?

Dharma Giving involves imparting Buddhist teachings and truths, enabling others to attain absolute happiness. This enduring happiness transcends life and death, remaining forever within the recipient.

Examples include:

• Sharing Buddhist wisdom
• Helping others find life’s deeper meaning
• Providing emotional support and peace of mind

This form of giving transforms lives, providing a treasure that remains eternal.

Comparison Between Material and Dharma Giving

As Buddhist teachings say: "Wealth is a treasure for one generation; Dharma is an eternal treasure." Material Giving provides temporary relief, while Dharma Giving offers everlasting happiness.

3. The Synergy of Material and Dharma Giving

The Importance of Balance

Both paths are indispensable. While Material Giving ensures survival, Dharma Giving imbues life with purpose. Together, they create the most powerful means of fostering happiness.

How Material Giving Leads to Dharma Giving

Examples:

• Financial aid enables someone to regain stability and embrace spiritual teachings.
• Medical treatment restores health, paving the way for a deeper pursuit of life’s meaning.

In this way, Material Giving becomes a bridge to Dharma Giving.

4. Gratitude Fostered by Both Paths

Absolute happiness reveals the true value of past acts of kindness. It fosters gratitude for those who supported us on our journey.

• Thankfulness for those who lent a helping hand
• Appreciation for family and friends who provided support
• Recognition of those who encouraged and uplifted us

Such gratitude fuels a cycle of kindness, spreading happiness further.

Conclusion: Choose the Path to Make Others Happy

Buddha’s teachings on Material and Dharma Giving serve as a roadmap for making the world a happier place. By embracing these paths, we too can find profound fulfillment and purpose.