Question asked by Adrian
Dear Pastors,
I would like to ask what to do with the food offerings after I offered it like (tea, yogurt, etc.) how do I put it away or dispose of it ?
And, what do I do if ants or any other insects some how manage to eat some of the food offerings do the ants get bad karma for eating the offerings and if so what can i do for ants?
Thank you Pastors
Dear Adrian,
You asked a very interesting and practical question. Offerings are always disposed of in an appropriate and respectful manner as possible. For example water offerings, tea, etc. is usually disposed of by pouring into the grass or plants outside in a clean area. If you are not near any green spaces or if you do not have a garden, you can use pour the liquids down the sink. However, you should make sure that your sink is clean before you do so. This is permissible because we live in built up modern environments and it may not be possible. For offerings of food, you can do the same to leave them outside in clean areas under trees etc. If this is not possible, it is permissible to dispose of the offerings in the trash, but they should be kept in their own bag.
As for the insects or ants eating the offerings, no there is no negative karma for the insects. If they do get to the offerings, you should recite and blow mantras on them. This will bless them to take fortunate rebirths in the future and to practice the Dharma. I hope this helps.
Thank you