“Charity bestowed upon those who are worthy of it is like good seed sown on a good soil that yields an abundance of fruits. But alms given to those who are yet under the tyrannical yoke of the passions are like seed deposited in a bad soil. The passions of the receiver of the alms choke, as it were, the growth of merits.”
- 7th century BC to 5th century BC
- Indian
- Religious leader, thinker
- Founded Buddhism, taught people the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, which showed the causes of suffering and how to resolve them, and spread the path of training aimed at inner liberation and enlightenment.
Quote
“Charity bestowed upon those who are worthy of it is like good seed sown on a good soil that yields an abundance of fruits. But alms given to those who are yet under the tyrannical yoke of the passions are like seed deposited in a bad soil. The passions of the receiver of the alms choke, as it were, the growth of merits.”
Explanation
This quote highlights the importance of both the intention behind charitable acts and the state of the recipient. Charity given to those who are worthy—meaning individuals who are mindful, virtuous, and open to receiving help in a constructive way—is like a good seed planted in fertile soil, producing positive results. However, giving to individuals who are overwhelmed by negative passions (like greed, anger, or ignorance) is likened to planting seeds in poor soil, where the growth of virtue and merit is hindered. The passions of the receiver choke the potential benefits of the charity, preventing it from fostering long-term positive change.
In modern life, this idea encourages the practice of mindful giving. Rather than giving out of obligation or to individuals who may misuse or misunderstand the gift, it’s important to direct charitable actions to those who are in a position to use them for personal growth or community benefit. For example, supporting an organization that helps people develop new skills or rise out of poverty may have a more lasting positive impact than giving to individuals who are stuck in cycles of harmful behavior or dependency.
Historically, Buddha’s teachings often pointed to the importance of giving with the right intention and the proper understanding of how the gift will be received. In Buddhism, charity is not only about the physical act of giving but also about the cultivation of compassion and wisdom in the giver, as well as the ability of the receiver to transform and use the gift in a way that benefits their spiritual development. By giving to those who are receptive and capable of using charity wisely, the giver maximizes the positive impact of their generosity, fostering greater merit and compassion for all.
