Definition
Reading: ekō / Sanskrit: pariṇāmanā
回向 (Merit Transfer) is an abbreviation for etenshuko (turning toward and directing), which refers to the act of redirecting one's own roots of merit and virtuous deeds to benefit all sentient beings or to serve as offerings. In Japanese, the name is read as "Eko."
Q&A
- Q: Why is it a mistake to think that one can be saved simply by receiving a dedication of merit (eko) without making any effort of one's own?
- A: Because the essence of dedication begins with "planting the seeds of virtuous deeds" oneself, it is a mistake to think that one can be saved simply by receiving a dedication of merit (eko) without making any effort of one's own. For those who do not plant seeds (by not engaging in spiritual practice or virtuous acts), there can be no harvest (the sharing of merit) through dedication.
