Pureland Buddhist Verses
Infinite benefits bless the breakfast food.
All beings profit greatly therefrom
Since the results are limitless and wonderful
The pleasure is ours for eternity
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This food is the gift of the whole universe
The earth, the sky, all sentient beings
In this food is much joy, much suffering, much hard work
We accept this food so that we may follow the path of practice
And help all beings everywhere
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The first bite is to cut off delusion
The second bite is to grow in faith
The third bite is to help all beings
We pray that all may be enlightened.
We pray for peace in this world
And the cessation of all misfortune
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The Buddha invites us to eat in mindfulness
Of the food, the earth, the world around us
We pray that our minds may not become dull
Nor our attention scattered
And that we may realize the deep significance of life
Community of Interbeing Verses
Holding the Empty Bowl
Looking at this bowl, I see how fortunate I am to have enough to eat to continue the practice.
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Serving Food
In this food, I see clearly the entire universe supporting my existence.
Before Eating
Beings all over the Earth are struggling to live.
I aspire to practice deeply so all may have enough to eat.
Beginning to Eat
With the first taste, I offer joy.
With the second, I help relieve the suffering of others.
With the third, I see others’ joy as my own.
With the fourth, I learn the way of letting go.
29 Looking at Your Plate or Bowl after Eating The meal is finished, and I am satisfied. The four gratitudes are deeply in my mind.
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