Namo Buddhassa - Donation of Counting Devices for Buddhist Chanting and Practice - Phase 1

Date: 22 September 2023
Project: Namo Buddhassa
Phase: Phase 1

In September 2023, I began a small initiative to donate handheld tally counters that could be used during Buddhist devotional and religious practices. The device can help keep track of repetitions when contemplating the qualities of the Buddha, chanting a particular verse, or completing another practice a specified number of times.

Because each repetition can be recorded with a simple press, the user does not need to concentrate on remembering the count. This makes the device useful not only for Buddhist monks and nuns, but also for anyone who regularly engages in chanting or similar practices involving a predetermined number of repetitions.

During the first phase, the devices were sent by post to Buddhist monks who had requested them. I considered these not simply as items being distributed, but as offerings intended to support their religious practice.

The response to the initiative was much greater than I initially expected. By the second round, requests had been received from more than 100 Buddhist monks and nuns. I therefore planned to continue providing the devices in further stages whenever possible.

Although this was a relatively simple project, it was meaningful to me because even a small and inexpensive item can become useful when placed in the hands of someone who can use it regularly in their religious practice.

My wish at the time:
May the monks and nuns who dedicate their lives to the Buddha Sasana receive the courage and strength to preserve it for generations to come. May the blessings of the Triple Gem be with them.