When one has the feeling of dislike for evil, when one feels tranquil, one finds pleasure in listening to good teachings; when one has these feelings and appreciates them, one is free of fear.
BuddhaRead
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Charity should be given wisely to truly deserving individuals, as it will be more fruitful than giving to those not ready to appreciate it.
This quote by Buddha emphasizes the importance of discernment in the act of giving. It suggests that charity should not be randomly bestowed, but rather given to those who are truly worthy and capable of growing from it, much like how good seeds need fertile soil to thrive. When charity is given to those who are overwhelmed by their own passions and struggles, it may have little to no positive effect, akin to planting seeds in barren or unfit soil, thereby stunting the growth of virtue and progress.
Themes
CharityWorthinessGivingPassionsGrowth
In practice
Example use cases
A speaker at a charity event might use this quote to emphasize the importance of giving wisely.
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We are what we think. All that we are arises with our thoughts. With our thoughts, we make the world.
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Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.
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