Significance of Almsgiving
Almsgiving is a core practice across various religions and philosophies, emphasizing the act of giving to those in need. In Buddhism, it involves providing food and resources to monks and the less fortunate, reflecting compassion and generosity, and is seen as a path toward spiritual growth. Jainism also values almsgiving as a charitable practice that benefits both givers and receivers. Beyond these traditions, almsgiving is recognized in scriptures and teachings as a vital moral obligation, promoting generosity and virtuous living.
Synonyms: Charity, Philanthropy, Giving, Generosity, Support, Donation, Benefaction
In Dutch: Aalmoezen geven
In Finnish: Almujen antaminen
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Almsgiving'
Almsgiving in Buddhism encompasses a variety of charitable acts, primarily focusing on giving to the needy and monks. It emphasizes compassion and generosity, portraying almsgiving as a vital practice fostering virtuous living and positive karma.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The act wherein the lay disciples wished to provide food for the priests, emphasizing the importance of charity and support for the Buddha.[1] (2) The act of donating food or resources to the needy, emphasizing the importance of generosity.[2] (3) The act of giving to others, which the Bodhisatta engaged in before adopting the ascetic life.[3] (4) The act of giving to the needy, which the king embraces after his realization about the sorrow of the fairies.[4] (5) The practice of giving food and resources to those in need, underscoring its importance as a virtue in the narrative.[5]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The act of offering food and support to the Buddha and his Sangha.[6] (2) The act of giving, which was a significant part of the monk's journey; however, Pukkusati recognized the essence of simplicity.[7] (3) The act of giving alms, which is a central practice in Buddhism, exemplified by Darubhandaka’s commitment to offer food regularly.[8] (4) The practice of collecting food and sustenance through mindful offering, representing a form of humility and ethical living.[9] (5) A meritorious act performed by the King following the Bodhisatta's advice, representing charity and generosity.[10]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A practice in Buddhism where laypeople provide food and support to monks as an act of generosity.[11] (2) A ritual in which food is offered to monks, significant in the story of Culla Panthaka's involvement.[12] (3) The act of offering food or support to monks, a key practice in Buddhism aimed at cultivating generosity.[13] (4) The act of giving food or charitable donations, which is extolled in the verses as a practice leading to abundant fruit when done skillfully.[14]
From: Mahavamsa
(1) A practice emphasized by many kings, recognizing its significance in Buddhist tradition as a means of cultivating generosity and compassion.[15] (2) The practice by which the king provided food and resources to the bhikkhus and the poor.[16]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) The practice of giving food or resources to monks, emphasized in the teachings delivered by the Buddha.[17]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) The act of giving food, robes, or other items to monks; a crucial element in the process of sharing merits.[18]
From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga
(1) The act of offering food or donations to monks, which is a meaningful practice among lay Buddhists.[19]
From: Vinaya (1): The Patimokkha
(1) Acts of charity directed to monks, involving proper etiquette and considerations in accordance to the Pacittiya.[20]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) The practice of giving donations, particularly to monks or members of the Order, considered important in the teachings of the Blessed One.[21]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The act of giving food or support to the Buddha, which is a central practice in Buddhism indicating compassion and generosity.[22] (2) The act of donating food, goods, or money to assist those in need, often seen as a key practice in Buddhist teachings.[23]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The act of giving or sharing resources for the benefit of others, considered an important practice in Buddhism.[24]
From: The 6th Patriarch Platform Sutra
(1) Acts of charity that are seen as insufficient for achieving true merits if not accompanied by the right understanding of mind.[25]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) The act of giving to those in need, which is a key practice in Buddhist tradition.[26] (2) The act of giving food or resources to monks, which reflects compassion and generosity, exemplified by the banker's daughter.[27] (3) The practice of collecting food through the act of begging, which is central to the Bodhisat's new monastic life.[28]
Hindu concept of 'Almsgiving'
Almsgiving in Hinduism encompasses seeking and giving food respectfully, fulfilling moral duties, and performing charitable acts. It highlights generosity, spiritual growth, and the importance of supporting the needy, seen as virtuous and essential in religious life.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The act of giving to the needy or poor, often integrated into religious practices.[29] (2) The act of giving to those in need, which is emphasized as a means to gain merit and good fortune.[30]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The practice of offering food or monetary support to the needy, esteemed as a noble and meritorious act.[31]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The act of giving offerings as a sign of reverence for the holy discourse.[32]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The act of seeking and receiving food from others, which should be approached with respect and according to one’s caste rules.[33]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The act of donating to the needy, regarded as a virtuous practice yielding spiritual benefits.[34]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) Donations or charitable acts intended to please the deities and ancestors, leading to spiritual growth.[35]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A virtue that reflects the bráhmanical culture of generosity and moral values, highlighting the theme of sacrifice in the story.[36]
From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)
(1) The act of giving to those in need, an important practice in the life of ascetics and householders.[37]
From: Hitopadesha (English translation)
(1) A moral duty that the tiger adopts, indicating a shift from selfishness to generosity.[38]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) The act of giving to those in need, addressed in specific rules regarding the behavior of students in the context of Apastamba's work.[39]
Jain concept of 'Almsgiving'
Almsgiving in Jainism involves donating food or resources to those in need, emphasizing spirituality, and also includes giving to monks or nuns, reflecting respect for their religious practices and fostering communal support.
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) The act of giving food or donations to monks or nuns, often associated with respect for their religious practice.[40]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The act of donating food or resources to those in need, serving as an important practice for both the givers and receivers in the context of spirituality.[41]
The concept of Almsgiving in local and regional sources
Almsgiving is an important ritual held three months post-death, aimed at honoring the deceased and transferring merit, reflecting cultural customs and the significance of remembrance within the community.
From: Buddhist Ceremonies and Rituals of Sri Lanka
(1) A customary act held three months after death to honor the deceased, intended to transfer merit to them.[42]