The Importance of Cleanliness in Temples : หน้า 186/207

of their donations, going from 10 to 100 baht. If they had planned to donate 100 baht, they would increase the amount exponentially. Therefore, cleanliness is the most charming attribute of a temple.” “When visitors first arrive at a temple, where is their first stop? It is the restroom, of course! Many often ask when they step into the temple, “Where is the restroom?” They don’t ask, “Where can I find the abbot?” or “Where can I meet the monk who is an expert in the Pali language?” For this reason, it is important to keep the restrooms and other temple facilities spotless. As a matter of fact, everyone who comes to the temple should be responsible for its cleanliness as well.” “Do not feel disdainful towards cleaning supplies, such as a broom, a rag, a garbage can, etc., as though they are foul objects. If we carefully reflect upon them, they are the “angels of cleanliness.” For instance, when the broom is being used to clean the floor, it is mighty, as if it is collecting treasures (donations) for the temple. As mentioned earlier, cleanliness is the most charming attribute of a temple, so these mighty cleaning supplies or “angels of cleanliness,” can increase contributions to support Buddhism.” “Luang Phaw Wat Paknam continued to say that temples that lack cleanliness, with a messy sanctuary or monastic residences, will turn away donors who support such structures every time they come to make merit. They will think that the temple does not care to maintain its existing structures. In the future, when the temple solicits contributions for another building or so forth, they may raise the question, “If you aren’t able to keep those old buildings clean, how can you keep the new ones clean?” Of course, the temple will burn with shame.” “If the temple keeps its areas clean all the time (every corner looks clean and comfortable for meditation, for walks, and even for naps), there is a strong chance that this will influence people to make an offer to the abbot, “Luang Phaw, would you like to construct a new building? Even though, I don’t have enough money, I can urge my friends to do it for you.” Cleanliness can convince laypeople to become the temple’s good supporters and lead their lives in perpetual virtue. The monks and novice monks will no longer need to go on their alms rounds. As a result, they can spend most of their time studying Buddhist theory and meditation practice. And they will be able to impart this knowledge to the laypeople for their benefit. When laypeople make contributions, the temple should not hold the money for too long. It should quickly begin the project to which the sponsors donated. The temple has to make the most out of people’s contributions as quickly as possible. It is imperative that the temple follow up on its commitments.