Noble Use of Money
11
So, for abhayadaan, one should first have the inner
intention (bhaav) of not hurting any living being, even in the
slightest degree. Only then will this come into practice. The
Lord has called this the ultimate of all charities. No money is
involved in this charity. This is the ultimate form of charity, yet
people do not have the capacity for it. Even those who have
money cannot give this charity. Therefore they should perform
their charity with money.
The Lord has said there are no other forms of charity
aside from these four. People talk about other forms of charities,
but they are all imaginary. There are only these four. As much
as possible, your intention should be towards practicing
abhayadaan.
Questioner: If we do abhayadaan, does that
automatically include the other three?
Dadashri: No. Abhaydaan is possible for only
extraordinary people and therefore even those who do not have
the financial means can practice it. At one time the wealthy used
to do abhayadaan, but nowadays they lack the qualities because
they have acquired and accumulated their wealth by depriving
and threatening others.
Questioner: So, have they done bhayadaan (charity of
threats/fear)?
Dadashri: No, you cannot say that. Despite having done
this, they give towards gnandaan. Regardless of what they do,
at least they are using their money for gnandaan. At least they
are doing something good.
Only Gnanis Can Give Abhayadaan
Abhayadaan is the best. The Lord has praised
abhayadaan. First and foremost give abhayadaan, so that no
being will fear you; then comes charity of knowledge, medicine,
and finally food.