Hindu Article-The art of giving

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The art of giving

 

CHENNAI, JAN. 7. It has been observed by many saint-scholars that

only very few human beings are born with virtuous qualities such as

charity, liberality and empathy for fellow human beings. The presence

of such characteristic traits are essential if a person wants to

avoid the pitfalls of moral transgressions and develop the necessary

qualities for spiritual progress. Sacred literature the world over

lays emphasis on developing the desired qualities as a pre-requisite

for spiritual salvation. The "Thirukkural", by virtue of propounding

universal truths, is hailed as a holy text by many adherents.

Sri. V. Natarajan said in a lecture that each man should train

himself assiduously to lead a good and value-based life. Purity of

mind is in itself dharma, and all else is pompous show. However, as

stressed in the Bhagavad Gita, one should embrace virtuous conduct

not with the ulterior motive of gaining liberation, but for their

intrinsic value. Cultivating the art of giving is one such trait.

Many feel uncomfortable with the thought of offering liberally to the

needy since money is a bottomless pit, and one may always want more;

However, that is not true of satiation of hunger, which is why it is

recommended that one appease the devouring hunger of the indigent

poor. More squalid than begging is a life of self-indulgence and one

should actively cultivate the joy of giving. It has been said,

``Death is indeed the greatest calamity; worse than that is one's

failure in charity.'' Kumanan was a virtuous king beloved to all and

when he found his sibling, Amanan, plotting to seize power he gave

away his kingdom and retired to the forest. However, his popularity

remained steadfast, and the evil brother announced a huge reward to

anyone who would murder the erstwhile ruler. Wiser counsel from the

pretender's court prevailed who discoursed on the art of giving, and

wrought a change of heart in the errant brother.

Karna was an embodiment of liberality, unstinting when it came to

offering that which was sought. Having fallen prey to Arjuna's arrow

his life was ebbing away when Lord Krishna approached him in the garb

of a mendicant, seeking alms. A bemused Karna rued the fact that he

had very little to give since he was at the fag end of life, but

would part with anything he still possessed. Lord Krishna besought

the gift of the entire tally of virtues accrued by his meritorious

conduct and the noble warrior willingly obliged. When the Supreme

Being revealed Himself and was willing to grant Karna anything he may

desire, the virtuous man stated that he never indulged in any

activity with thoughts of quid pro quo; however, he expressed a wish

to be granted the trait, which would enable him to never say `no' to

any supplicant.

 

wish you all a happy new year

 

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