Significance of Giving of gifts
The keyphrase "Giving of gifts" encompasses multiple interpretations across different texts. In Purana, it signifies charitable acts that enhance earthly life, making it deathless. Dharmashastra highlights it as a noble duty involving generous offerings, acts by Shudras with honorable outcomes, and the fulfillment of human purposes through good deeds. Additionally, it notes potential hidden motives like fame. Similarly, Theravada emphasizes gifting material items or alms as a virtuous practice taught by Buddha, reinforcing the significance of generosity.
Synonyms: Gift-giving, Offering presents, Giving presents, Bestowing gifts, Donation
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Giving of gifts'
In Buddhism, the Giving of gifts is viewed as a virtuous practice that involves offering material items or alms, reflecting kindness and generosity as essential teachings of the Buddha.
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) The act of offering material items or alms, which is emphasized in the teachings of the Buddha as a virtuous practice.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Giving of gifts'
In Hinduism, the Giving of gifts is seen as a noble act promoting good deeds, transforming earthly life, fulfilling duties, and acquiring social capital, while balancing intentions ranging from generosity to hidden motives for recognition.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Acts undertaken by the Shudra that lead to invisible results, which are permitted and considered honorable according to the text.[2] (2) The act of bestowing items or rewards, which is emphasized as a noble act that fulfills human purposes by fostering good deeds.[3] (3) The act of generously providing offerings or presents as part of duties.[4] (4) The act of presenting offerings or valuables, which is described as an obligatory action for the king, particularly towards those who have not sought such gifts.[5] (5) The act of providing presents or donations, considered a way to acquire wealth or social capital within the context of the Vaishya's responsibilities.[6]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) A key duty that is highlighted in the teachings of Prajapati as part of one's responsibilities.[7]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Acts of charity that contributed to the transformative nature of earthly life, making it deathless.[8]