The Doctrine Of Merit (Puñña) In Buddhism: A Cross-Canonical Perspective

Abstract

Through a variety of scriptural traditions, such as the Pāli Canon and the Chinese Buddhist Canon (大藏經 Dàzàngjīng), the article examines the idea of puñña (merit) in Buddhism. It is believed that merit is the basis for pleasure in the present and the future and that it is a motivating element on the journey to emancipation. The material is on examining the threefold merit, the ten meritorious deeds, and practise techniques including meditation, moral discipline, charity, and merit commitment. The article contrasts the methods of Southern and Northern Buddhism, drawing on important texts including the Dhammapada, Saddharma-pundarika-Sutra, the Milindapañha, and Chơn Lý (The True Dhamma). The studies emphasises that, when used with knowledge and the correct perspective, merit is not just the outcome of good karma but also a path to enlightenment.