Executive Summary: Merit of Offering Water and Digging Wells for Temples
A case study from the Dream in Dream Kindergarten illustrating the profound blessings of the “Stream of Merit.” Quenching the thirst of the Sangha and the public yields a life of ultimate tranquility, free from all physical and mental burning.
1. A Stream of Pure Faith
During his lifetime, this man noticed that the rural temple he frequently visited suffered from a severe lack of clean water during the dry season, causing great hardship for the monks and laypeople. He stepped forward as the primary sponsor, hiring engineers to drill a deep groundwater well and installing a high-standard water filtration system for the temple. This ensured that everyone had access to clean water for drinking and washing all year round. This act constitutes the offering of “Water,” the most vital element of life.
2. The Blessings of Hydration and Coolness
- Radiant Complexion and Superb Health: When reborn as a human, the merit of offering water guarantees he will possess exceptionally smooth, hydrated, and glowing skin. His body will always retain a youthful radiance, entirely free from skin diseases or ailments caused by internal heat.
- Protection from Fire and Drought: The merit of “coolness” acts as a protective shield. He will be completely safeguarded from fires, severe burns, and all forms of intense heat. Wherever he chooses to live, the land will be fertile and abundant, and he will never face a shortage of resources.
- A Serene and Stress-Free Mind: The merit stream continuously flows into his spiritual center, rendering his mind deeply calm and serene. He will be incredibly patient, rarely angered, and immune to worldly stress, handling crises with a cool intellect. During meditation, his mind will center and still very rapidly.
3. Luang Por’s Teaching
Luang Por Dhammajayo teaches that “Water is Life.” Offering drinking water or digging a well for a temple extends the life and vitality of Buddhism. This merit actively generates positive energy every single time someone turns on the tap. Consequently, the donor receives an endless, continuous flow of happiness and prosperity, much like an unceasing river. It is a profound merit that extinguishes the burning fires of defilements (Kilesa) and leads the soul to ultimate peace.
