Hey Y'all, (a common expression in my adoptive home of North Carolina,
USA)
I'm looking for help collecting quotes or citations on the subject
listed above. The idea is that one can not make merit for another,
etc.
The impetus behind this request is a practice at my local Buddhist
Temple. (I'm fortunate to have Wat Carolina Buddhajakra Vanaram only
20 miles or so from my home.) The practice is referred to as "lustral
waters" and involves the pouring of water from one vessel to another as
the monks chant in Pali. It has been explained to me that the practice
transfers one's own merit to a person, alive or dead, of one's choosing.
I understand the strong human need for such a practice. On the other
hand, it appears to me un-Buddhist, not un-Buddhist in that Buddhists
shouldn't do this but un-Buddhist in that the practice isn't supported
by the Pali Texts.
I did ask the Abbot about this but he responded with a story of how as
a young monk he asked Buddhadassa a question and was sent away without
any response.
I know many of you are familiar with Thai Buddhism and I would
appreciate your response.