THE STORY OF DHAMMIKA UPASAKA

Описание: What kind of life allows us to face our final moments with peace and joy?

The story of Dhammika Upāsaka, a devoted lay disciple of the Buddha, gives us a beautiful answer.

Dhammika lived a life of generosity and virtue. He regularly offered food and requisites to the Sangha, and his children also followed his example in living virtuously and practising generosity.

When Dhammika became seriously ill, he invited members of the Sangha to recite the Dhamma beside him. According to the story, six celestial chariots appeared and invited him to their respective heavenly worlds. Dhammika eventually chose the Tusita world, encouraging his family to continue performing meritorious deeds.

His story illustrates the teaching of Dhammapada Verse 16:
“Here one rejoices, one rejoices hereafter;
in both worlds the merit-maker rejoices.”

The message is simple yet profound:

A wholesome life creates its own happiness.

When we cultivate generosity, kindness, virtue, and heedfulness, the goodness we create does not disappear. It shapes our minds, our lives, and according to the teaching of the Dhamma, the journey that follows.

May this story inspire us to accumulate not merely possessions, but goodness.

May we practise generosity.
May we cultivate virtue.
May we live heedfully.
And may our hearts rejoice in the goodness we have done.

Theruwan Saranai with Mettā🙏🏼