Sharing Merits (Dedication of Merits) and Sending loving-kindness

There are two types of merit-sharing: 1. Intentional merit-sharing: Sharing merits with a specific intention (e.g., dedicating merits to the deceased). 2. Non-intentional merit-sharing: Sharing merits openly so that anyone who rejoices ("sādhu") may receive them. Intentional Merit-Sharing When merits are intentionally shared with the deceased, the deceased must be a peta (hungry ghost) and must come to rejoice ("sādhu") to receive the merits. If they do not rejoice, they cannot receive the merits. Non-Intentional Merit-Sharing When merits are shared non-intentionally, anyone who rejoices ("sādhu") may receive the merits. Those who do not rejoice will not receive them. Traditional Practice Therefore, when performing the water-pouring ritual to share merits after a good deed, both methods are combined: A portion is dedicated intentionally (e.g., to specific deceased beings). Another portion is shared non-intentionally (open to all). This tradition is profoundly beneficial and virtuous. How the Living Can Help the Deceased The living can assist the deceased in two ways: 1. Sharing merits (through dedication). 2. Sending loving-kindness (mettā). Nothing else benefits them. Other actions are futile. Key Advice To benefit the deceased: Perform good deeds and share merits. If they can rejoice ("sādhu"), they will receive the merits. Send them mettā. Wherever they are reborn, this mettā will bring them peace. Important Clarification Merit-sharing and mettā are not only for the deceased but also for the living: Merit-sharing: You may intentionally or non-intentionally share merits with the living (e.g., "I share my merits with you. Say sādhu!"). If they rejoice, they receive the merits. Anyone hearing non-intentional sharing may also rejoice and receive merits. Mettā: You may send mettā intentionally to the deceased or the living (with or without specific intention). Mettā requires no rejoicing ("sādhu") to be effective—it directly reaches the recipient. Thus, sending mettā to the deceased or living is highly potent. This practice underscores the interconnectedness of all beings and the power of selfless generosity (dāna), moral conduct (sīla), and mental cultivation (bhāvanā) in Theravada Buddhism. Dr. Ashin Parami