Overview
The Buddha highly praised generosity (dāna) not only for its kammic result in the next life but for its tangible social and psychological benefits in the present. General Siha, a military commander, once challenged the Buddha to explain the benefits of giving visible here and now, and the Buddha provided this list.
The List
- Bahuno janassa piyo hoti manāpo - One becomes dear and appealing to the masses: A generous person is naturally loved and appreciated by the people around them.
- Santo sappurisā bhajanti - Good and wise people associate with them: Generosity attracts the friendship of virtuous individuals, monastics, and the wise.
- Kalyāṇo kittisaddo abbhuggacchati - A good reputation spreads: The fame of a generous person travels far and wide.
- Visārado upasaṅkamati - One approaches any assembly without fear: Whether approaching nobles, priests, householders, or ascetics, a generous person does so with confidence and without embarrassment.
- Saggam lokaṃ upapajjati - Rebirth in a heavenly realm: Upon the breakup of the body, the generous person is guaranteed a fortunate rebirth. (This is the one benefit that relies on future kamma).
Textual References
- Canonical: Sīhasenāpati Sutta (AN 5.34) – General Sīha confirms the first four from his own life experience, and accepts the fifth on faith from the Buddha.