The Buddha Only Asks Two Things of Us – Do You Know What They Are?

Have you ever wondered what the Buddha truly needs from us? Many might think he requires rituals, flowers, and incense. Yet, the Venerable Thích Chân Quang offers a profound and simple answer. In a teaching on the responsibility to spread the Dharma, he explains that the Buddha asks only two things from each of us. The first is to practice diligently. The second is to share the teachings to help and guide beings. It is our gratitude toward the Buddha that transforms into the motivation to begin our own journey of propagating the Dharma.

**Gratitude for the Buddha is the Root of Propagating the Dharma**

Those who practice the Buddha's teachings and find peace naturally develop gratitude in their hearts. But how do we express this gratitude? Bowing to the Buddha, offering flowers and fruit, or chanting sutras—all these create blessings for ourselves, but the Buddha does not need them. The Venerable Thích Chân Quang clarifies this directly.

"What does the Buddha need? He only needs two things from us. First, that we practice diligently. Second, that we share the teachings to help and guide beings."

Therefore, spreading the Dharma is not the exclusive duty of monks and nuns. Anyone, whether a layperson or monastic, when their gratitude for the Buddha runs deep, will naturally wish to repay this kindness. The most beautiful way to do so is by bringing the teachings to others.

**The Merit of Spreading the Dharma is the Most Enduring**

In this world, we can help others with food, clothing, money, or by teaching them a trade. But all these things are fleeting, for according to the law of impermanence, everything changes. Even the blessings of a heavenly rebirth expire after thousands of years. There is only one form of merit that endures: spreading the Dharma to guide beings. When we plant the seed of faith in cause and effect, or the understanding of liberation and nirvana, in someone's heart, that wholesome seed will stay with them forever. The Venerable Thích Chân Quang explains this beautifully.

"When we spread the Dharma, when we share the teachings, when we bring the aspiration for liberation and the right view into a person's mind, we have given them something absolutely indestructible."

Thus, the merit of propagating the Dharma is boundless. A disciple of the Buddha, whatever else they may do, should ultimately come to know the importance of spreading the Dharma to guide beings.

**Methods of Propagation for Everyone**

The Venerable Thích Chân Quang has pointed out many approachable ways to spread the Dharma that anyone can practice:

**Sharing as a friend:** Telling stories of karma, humbly and warmly sharing one's own experiences. This is the most fundamental way, without any sense of superiority.

**Teaching in a teacher-student relationship:** When in the position of a teacher, guide your students with both strictness and compassion, always remembering it is for their benefit.

**Inviting and guiding:** Even if you cannot give a lecture, you can invite others to visit a temple or listen to a Dharma talk. This also carries immense merit.

**Giving books, CDs, or Dharma materials:** If you know someone who is suffering, cannot sleep, or is heartbroken, skillfully introduce them to a relevant book on the Dharma.

**Establishing a practice center:** Gathering spiritual friends together to practice, support, and remind one another. This merit is as great as building a temple where there is none and no teacher.

**Learning languages and media skills:** Acquiring another language or knowing how to use sound and images to support teachings are highly effective means in the digital age.

Each of these ways is like a fragrant flower, contributing to bringing the light of the Buddha's teachings to all paths. What matters is that we begin with small steps and a sincere heart.

**The Ethics of a Dharma Propagator: Humility, Patience, and Perseverance**

Propagating the Dharma is not just about technique. One who shares the Dharma must uphold three crucial virtues. The first is humility. Never appoint yourself as a master or think yourself better than others. The Venerable Thích Chân Quang warns:

"The first requirement is humility in propagating the Dharma. What is humility? For example, if you stand in the position of a teacher, speaking to many people, you must see yourself as mere soil and dust. Do not think, 'Ah, I am the teacher now. All these are my disciples, and I am superior to everyone.' If such a thought arises, you are finished; your merit vanishes immediately."

The second is patience. On the path of sharing the Dharma, you will certainly encounter insults, slander, and humiliation. Learn from the Buddha himself: when villagers cursed him, he silently held his alms bowl, listened, and then walked on. His patience is an extraordinary example.

"On the path of guiding beings, we will face much slander, cursing, and humiliation. We must clench our teeth, endure it, and press forward. Do not let a little sadness or a bit of pride make you retreat."

The third is perseverance. Spreading the Dharma is not always smooth sailing. You might be turned away at the door, rejected, have your car break down, or have people avoid you. But if you persevere, results will come.

**Begin Today**

Each of us has a wholesome connection with the Buddha's teachings. Do not think your practice is insufficient or that you are not eloquent. A timely piece of advice, a book handed over, a simple invitation to a temple—all these can transform a life. Let your gratitude for the Buddha arise, and repay it by sharing. Do not wait until you are perfect. Start now with a heart of humility, patience, and perseverance. As the Venerable Thích Chân Quang taught, the merit of propagating the Dharma is the most enduring; it will stay with you forever.

"Namo Bhagavate Sakyamunaye Buddhaya"