Tsuizen (Memorial Service) Eko (Prayer) “We pray for the spirits of our ancestors, for those who have formed a relationship with Buddha, and for all those who have not: May they all follow the benevolent life of the Tathagata.” The meaning of this is Zenkon (Good Roots) Kudoku (Virtues). Practicing Shodaigyo, we have accumulated much merit that we now send to the spirits of our ancestors and to all of the deceased. We say, “May you all follow the benevolent life of the Tathagata.” In daily life you may say, “I have some extra money at the moment. You are in need. Let me please help you.” In the same context, we send our bountiful merits garnered from our practice to the deceased. This is what is meant by Zenkon Kudoku.