27. The Benefits of Generosity

Overall Teaching

The chapter highlights the importance of non-negligence for bodhisattvas, particularly in practicing the six perfections (pāramitās), leading to the perfection of pure discipline. It lists ten benefits of giving (the first perfection), including overcoming stinginess, gaining wealth, being loved by the saṅgha, and remaining close to spiritual friends like Buddhas and bodhisattvas.

Summary

1. On the Practice of Non-Negligence:

   • In regard to abiding in the practice of non-negligence, non-negligence leads to the attainment of unsurpassed perfect awakening. To accomplish it, a bodhisattva should cultivate pure discipline and practice the six perfections.

2. The Benefits of Practicing the Perfection of Giving

   • The bodhisattva who does not abandon the aspiration for omniscience and practices the six perfection experiences ten benefits related to giving (the first perfection).

3. Ten Benefits of Practicing Giving (Dāna Pāramitā)

   • 1. Subdues the affliction of stinginess.

     2. One continuously cultivates the mind of generosity.

     3. Shares wealth with all sentient beings, leading to samādhi and nirvāṇa.

     4. Rebirth in a wealthy family.

     5. Manifestation of the mind of generosity wherever reborn.

     6. Being loved by the fourfold saṅgha.

     7. Fearlessness and confidence among the fourfold saṅgha.

     8. Widespread reputation.

     9. Soft hands and feet, with smooth and firm soles.

     10. Continuous association with good spiritual friends (Buddhas, bodhisattvas, śrāvakas) until the attainment of Bodhi.

4. The Bhagavān’s Verses on the Benefits of Giving

   • Subduing Stinginess: A person who subdues stinginess and cultivates generosity is reborn into wealth and loved by all beings.

   • Fearlessness and Reputation: In great assemblies, the bodhisattva remains fearless, and their reputation spreads.

   • Physical Attributes and Spiritual Friends: The bodhisattva perfects the marks of a great being, gains soft hands and feet, and is surrounded by spiritual friends.

   • Consistent Generosity: With an unending mind of generosity, the bodhisattva is beloved by countless sentient beings.

   • Widespread Benefits: Rebirth into wealthy families, a joyful mind of giving, and association with spiritual friends.

Commentary

Thrangu Rinpoche's commentary first summarises the essence of the chapter and then explains the ten benefits in more detail:

1. Elimination of Stinginess: Generosity cuts through the narrow-mindedness of stinginess, which is a harmful emotional state.

2. Habitual Generosity: Regular practice strengthens the attitude of giving, making it a natural and growing tendency.

3. Wealth Benefiting Society: Generosity ensures that wealth is used to support the prosperity and welfare of society rather than causing harm.

4. Karmic Rebirth into Wealth: A generous person will be reborn into a wealthy and prominent family, they can use that wealth to continue practising generosity.

5. Appreciation from Others: Generosity fosters admiration and liking from those the bodhisattva encounters.

6. Fearlessness in Social Interactions: A generous person feels no fear or intimidation when interacting with others.

7. Respect and Praise: Generosity leads to respect, praise, and the absence of criticism or slander.

8. Soft Hands and Feet: The physical marks of soft hands and feet arise from a gentle, generous mind that acts kindly toward all.

9. Steadiness and Grace: A generous person walks with firm and steady steps, symbolising stability and kindness.

10. Guidance from Spiritual Teachers: From now until enlightenment, a generous person will always have the support and guidance of spiritual mentors.

Discussion

How does the practice of generosity, as described in this chapter, not only benefit the individual bodhisattva but also contribute to the overall welfare and spiritual development of society?