This body is doomed to perish. Why should I take care of something which is impermanent? I take protection of another secret source – charity.
Charity is the best thing for a human being, by performing which he gains all this ends.
In Hinduism, the concept of charity, or "dana," is
considered a fundamental virtue and is extensively discussed in various
Puranas. Here are some teachings on charity from different Hindu Puranas:
Bhagavata Purana
Significance of Charity: The Bhagavata Purana emphasizes
that charity should be performed with a pure heart and without any desire for
returns. It highlights that acts of charity purify the soul and bring one
closer to God.
Forms of Charity: It lists various forms of charity,
including giving food, water, clothes, shelter, and education. Feeding the
hungry and offering help to those in distress are particularly praised.
Vishnu Purana
Charity as Duty: The Vishnu Purana considers charity as a
duty of every human being. It is said that one should give according to one's
capacity and ensure that the charity reaches those who are genuinely in need.
Types of Charity: It distinguishes between three types of
charity: Sattvic (pure), Rajasic (passionate), and Tamasic (ignorant). Sattvic
charity is given without expectation and at the right place and time to a
deserving person.
Garuda Purana
Purification through Charity: The Garuda Purana describes
charity as a means to purify oneself and reduce negative karma. It also advises
that charity should be done with faith and without ego.
Ideal Recipients: It suggests that the best recipients of
charity are those who are righteous, learned, and in genuine need, such as
scholars, the poor, and those who are devoted to God.
Padma Purana
Charity and Righteousness: The Padma Purana associates
charity with righteousness (dharma). It narrates stories of individuals who
attained spiritual merit and liberation through selfless giving.
Effect of Charity: It explains that the effects of charity
are multiplied when done on auspicious days, during religious ceremonies, or in
holy places.
Skanda Purana
Charity as a Path to Moksha: The Skanda Purana asserts that
charity is one of the key paths to attain moksha (liberation). It emphasizes
giving to those who are dedicated to spiritual pursuits.
Role of Intention: It stresses the importance of the
intention behind charity. Charity performed with pure intentions and compassion
is deemed most beneficial.
Matsya Purana
Diverse Forms of Giving: The Matsya Purana details various
forms of charity, including giving land, gold, cows, and education. It
emphasizes that even small acts of kindness count as charity.
Rituals and Charity: It encourages integrating acts of
charity into daily rituals and religious practices, suggesting that doing so
enhances the spiritual benefits.
Agni Purana
Charity and Cosmic Balance: The Agni Purana teaches that
charity helps maintain the cosmic balance and order. It advises regular acts of
charity to ensure the welfare of society and the environment.
Importance of Discrimination: It advises exercising
discrimination in charity, suggesting that one should give to those who use the
help wisely and for constructive purposes.
General Principles Across Puranas
- Purity of Heart: The emphasis is on the purity of heart and selflessness in giving.
- Proportional Giving: It is often mentioned that charity should be proportional to one's means; even the poor can engage in charity through acts of kindness.
- Timing and Context: Giving at the right time, place, and to the right person is considered highly meritorious.
- Spiritual Gains: Charity is not just for material or social benefits but is a means to attain spiritual growth and liberation.
These teachings collectively highlight the importance of charity in Hindu dharma, encouraging individuals to engage in selfless acts of giving to promote personal spiritual growth and societal welfare.