In Pali, the traditional language of the Buddha’s teachings, dana means “generosity.” It is the very heart of the culture that has carried the Buddha’s teachings over the centuries and is the foundation of our organizational ethics.
In accordance with tradition, all Vipassana Hawai’i teachers offer their teachings free of charge and are supported through the freely-offered generosity of students and supporters. Costs associated with retreats cover the expenses associated with food, lodging, and administration but not teacher time, training, effort, or energy. We believe that this commitment helps keep the purity of the teachings alive and thriving, as it has for millennia.
Many of our greatest teachings regarding dana have come from our time in Burma when we participate in the ancient Buddhist communities that operate solely on the basis of generosity.
Each time we visit we are struck by the powerful wisdom, humility, and beauty of heart that motivates and is manifested by this practice. Dana is a cultural practice as much as a spiritual one and we aim to support a culture of generosity in the west based on these experience and insights.
Supporting the work of Vipassana Hawai’i enables a mutually beneficial relationship between all members of our community from the Board of Directors, to the teachers, to the sangha, the Vipassana Hawaiiland, and local community, as well as our humanitarianprograms in Southeast Asia. Your generosity is the only thing that enables us to do our work throughout the year.
As one of our teachers in Wachet village, the Mya Taung Sayadaw, always reminds us,
“Each time you give dana you should dedicate it toward your own full enlightenment.”
There are many ways of supporting our work
Our ongoing efforts are only made possible through generous donations from the members of our community. We offer several methods for the community to support our work around the world. Contribute to a specific campaign via our secure online system.
is absolutely vital for the continuation of all our programs; it serves in the background, applied where current needs are greatest. On this general donation page, you can also let us know how you would like your gift to serve for any specific purpose.
Sayadaw U Lakkhana’s give-away celebration for village elders
Other information
Sending in your donation by mail: Make checks out to Vipassana Hawai‘i. Our mailing address is PO Box 551681, Kapa‘au, Hawai‘i 96755.
A recurring gift: If you wish, the option to donate an amount at a regular interval is available on the donations page.
Volunteer opportunities are another way community members share their time and enthusiasm together.
Email us and let us know about your interests or skills.
Your contributions to Vipassana Hawai’i are tax-deductible. We are grateful for your generous support.
