1. When is the event?
The International Sangha Dana 2023 will take place on 13 May 2023, Saturday from 9am to 5pm.

2. Where would the event be held?
The International Sangha Dana 2023 would be held at Hall 404 of Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre. You may make your way to the event hall via Car/Taxi, Train or Bus. For more information on directions, you may visit https://www.suntecsingapore.com/visit

3. What is this event about?
This event is a rare opportunity where 300 Sangha from all over the world will gather in Singapore with the lay community to partake in Alms-Offering, Tipitaka Chanting & Dhamma Dialogue. The Three Traditions will be represented – Mahayana, Theravada and Vajrayana.

Alms-Offering
To be a monastic requires one to give up worldly comforts to fully dedicate one’s life on the path of Enlightenment (nibbana) while sharing insights into the Dhamma with the lay community. The practice of alms-offering, known as piṇḍapāta, is a way for laypeople to support the spiritual life of the Sangha, as well as to express gratitude and reverence to the Sangha.

Tipitaka Chanting
The Tipitaka, literally meaning ‘Three Baskets’, is the three-fold collection of the Buddhist teachings. Through the recitation of the Tipitaka, mindfulness (sati) and concentration (samadhi) are cultivated. To many people, reciting the Tipitaka in a large group brings a sense of peace and happiness.

Dhamma Dialogue
The Dhamma Dialogue, featuring international distinguished speakers with a wealth of knowledge and experience, will share how Buddhist practices can help individuals cultivate a positive mindset, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall mental and emotional well-being amidst this rapidly changing world.

4. Who are the organisers of this event?
The International Sangha Dana 2023 is organised by Wat Ananda Metyarama Thai Buddhist Temple (Singapore) and the Thai Sangha Samatca (Singapore).

5. How much does it cost to participate in this event?
This event is provided free-of-charge to everyone.

6. Do I need to register for the event?
You are strongly encouraged to register for the event so that the organisers can ensure that there are sufficient seats for everyone. You may also register in groups (as indicated in the google form). We will also be sending updates about the event via your registered email.

7. Do I need to stay throughout the event?
You are strongly encouraged to participate in the entire event. However, you are allowed to leave mid-way if you need to.

8. Is lunch provided?
Lunch will not be provided and external food cannot be consumed at the Hall in accordance with Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre’s policy. Nonetheless, there are plenty of food options at Suntec City that you may consider. Do remember to return to Hall 404 at the stipulated time before 12:45pm as the afternoon session resumes at 1:00pm.

9. Is there a dress code?
Please dress modestly as a mark of respect to the Triple Gems. You may also wish to bring a jacket or scarf as the venue is fully air-conditioned.

10. What items should I bring for the Alms Offering?
You may choose to offer the following, up to individual preference:

• Red Packet for your convenience
• Food items (exclude drinks) that meet these criteria:
  • Small and individually packed (to ease the process of offering)
  • Non-perishable (to prevent wastages as it can be stored)
• Medicine / Medicinal Items
• Personal Hygiene Items (e.g., toothbrush, toothpaste)

11. Do I need to offer alms to all 300 Sangha?
You may offer to any number of monastics as you wish to. What is most important is the motivation and intention behind the meritorious act of giving (dana), as the act of Sangha-dana is offering alms to the community of monastics, not to any individual or specific monastic.

12. How should one offer alms?
When approaching a monastic to offer alms, one should do so with humility and respect. While there is no need to kneel (due to space constraints), it is customary to offer a small bow as you offer the alms with both hands.

13. Do I need to bring anything for the Tipitaka Chanting?
No, you do not need to. All the materials will be provided.

Click here to register today! Limited seats!