Begging for Alms(化缘):
In Chinese, it is pronounced as: huà yuán，Written as:

Begging for alms, a term in Buddhism. Buddhism holds that those who can make offerings to monks are karmically connected to the Buddhist community. Monks engage in begging for food to cultivate good relationships, hence the term “begging for alms.” It also refers to all activities related to raising funds or support for Buddhist purposes, not just begging for food. Originally, it means the causes and conditions through which Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and revered monks educate sentient beings. Begging for alms refers to the causes and conditions for spiritual conversion.
Monks sustain their livelihood through begging for food and essentials. This practice embodies the Buddhist pursuit of a simple life and non-attachment to material possessions. For monks, begging for alms is not only a means to meet daily needs but also a practice of asceticism and generosity.
During the process of begging for alms, monks go out on the streets or to the doorsteps of homes with their alms bowls, receiving offerings from the faithful. Those who give offerings accumulate merits and virtues, which is a form of spiritual practice for both givers and receivers. Begging for alms reflects the Buddhist ideals of equality and compassion among all beings and allows monks to focus on their spiritual practices without the distractions of securing a livelihood.
From the perspective of spiritual practice, begging for alms is a way for monks to cultivate their minds and enhance their self-discipline. By asking others for offerings or forming karmic bonds, monks develop compassion, patience, and humility. Interacting and communicating with different people also allows monks to understand human nature and societal complexities, enhancing their wisdom and insight. Therefore, begging for alms becomes a method of spiritual practice, helping monks grow and elevate spiritually.
Economically speaking, begging for alms is a way for monks to gather resources. In ancient times, the economic support for temples and monks primarily came from the faithful’s offerings and donations. Through begging for alms, monks can request goods or food from followers to maintain the normal operations of temples and meet their daily needs. These offerings and donations can also be used for building temples, supporting monks, and aiding the poor, contributing to society.
Beyond its religious context, the term “begging for alms” has also taken on a broader meaning in modern Chinese. In contemporary society, it often describes the act of asking others for help, support, or donations. For example, charitable organizations or NGOs might engage in fundraising or charity sales as a form of begging for alms. Individuals facing hardships or disasters may seek support and assistance through fundraising or soliciting help, which is also considered an act of begging for alms. Additionally, in some cultures, begging for alms describes the act of begging by beggars from passersby.