Must teachers personally keep luxury watches or cars from disciples to respect their offerings?

Not necessarily. When discussing monastics receiving offerings, my view is that they can gratefully accept the giver’s intention and then consider how to use the resources. Personal enjoyment is not the only way to honor the donor.

A luxury watch, for example, could be sold to help people in need. A luxury car could be exchanged for an ordinary one, directing the remaining resources toward others. Accepting an offering and whether we can let go of it are two matters that need consideration together.

Practitioners especially need honesty about their own hearts. Can we truly let go, or are we reluctant and using “A disciple gave it to me” as an excuse? The donor may feel respected, while other believers may feel differently and even develop a negative impression of the faith. As someone others learn from, we need to consider these effects.

If someone wishes to spend a large sum on a designer bag for a teacher, that kindness can be treasured and guided. I have discussed families suffering greatly under debt, for whom the same amount might provide substantial help. Teachers can discuss with believers how to direct resources where they benefit more people.

I still prefer practitioners to earn respect through virtue and maintain purity, rather than appear exalted through designer goods. Explain your reasons clearly and invite reflection on how an offering is ultimately used and whether personal attachment is involved.