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The Holy Kural
Written over two millenia ago by Saint Tiruvalluvar,
translated under the guidance of Gurudeva, Sivaya Subramuniyaswami
Charity |
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Verse 221
Giving to the poor is true charity.
All other giving expects a recompense.
Verse 222
Though men may declare it a good path, gathering gifts is bad.
Though they decree it denies one heaven, giving gifts is good.
Verse 223
Men of good birth graciously give,
Never uttering the wretched excuse, "I have nothing."
Verse 224
How unpleasant a beggar's pleading can become,
Until one sees his face, so sweetly pleased.
Verse 225
Great indeed is the power acquired through austerity to endure hunger.
But greater still is the power of those who relieve the hunger of others.
Verse 226
Relieving the ravaging hunger of the poor
Is the most secure use of a rich man's wealth.
Verse 227
The fiery scourge called hunger never touches
The man who shares his daily meal with others.
Verse 228
Is it because they are unaware of the joys of giving
That hard-hearted men waste their wealth by hoarding it?
Verse 229
More bitter than even a beggar's bread is the
Meal of the miser who hoards wealth and eats alone.
Verse 230
There is nothing more bitter than death;
Yet even death is sweet when charitable giving is impossible.
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The Holy Kural
Written over two millenia ago by Saint Tiruvalluvar,
translated under the guidance of Gurudeva, Sivaya Subramuniyaswami
Charity |
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