The Right Charity
Bhagwandas, the Devotee
Once upon a time, in a certain city, there lived a devotee of God named Bhagwandas. He was a good man, well-versed in the scriptures. He travelled from place to place, singing and speaking praises of the Lord, and received offerings in kind and cash, which allowed him to lead a happy life.
The Sermon Invitation
One day, Bhagwandas travelled to another city. As usual, he was invited to preach a sermon. The townspeople arranged for the sermon to be delivered in the open verandah of a prominent citizen’s house. Devdas, the householder, welcomed this holy work with open arms.
The Offering Plate
As the sermon began, a plate was placed in a corner of the verandah for offerings. Anyone who wished could contribute money to the plate. Many people dropped their coins even before the sermon started, while others waited until it concluded. Devdas had brought an expensive shawl and a hundred rupees to present to the speaker, and he too chose to wait.
Ramdas’s Donation
Ramdas, another wealthy landlord in town, also attended the sermon. When it started, he placed a shawl and four rupees on the plate before sitting in front of Bhagwandas. Perhaps he would have given more if he had arranged for the speaker to come to his house.
A Moment of Reflection
Devdas watched closely as people made their offerings, noticing that Ramdas’s four rupees and shawl topped the list. He questioned why he should give an expensive shawl and a hundred rupees. He considered substituting his gifts for ten rupees and an ordinary dhoti instead. Consequently, he altered his presence.
The Message of Charity
As Bhagwandas delivered his sermon on the Mahabharata, he observed these exchanges. He pointedly shared a story about Karna, who was renowned for his charitable deeds. One day, while bathing in the river, a Brahmin approached him asking for alms. At that moment, Karna held a golden oil chalice in his left hand while applying oil with his right.
The Encounter with the Brahmin
The Brahmin requested, “Oh King, give me whatever you possess right now.” Karna complied, offering the golden chalice, but the Brahmin declined it, stating it was improper to accept charity given with the left hand.
Karna’s Wisdom
Karna replied, “When a man gives charity, he must give whatever lies in his hand. He should not dwell on the nature or type of charity he is providing. When I considered giving you this chalice, it was in my left hand. If I took the time to switch it to my right, my mind might change. That’s why I gave it to you instantly.”
A Change of Heart
These words resonated deeply with Devdas, prompting him to reconsider his gifts. He replaced the ten rupees and dhoti with his original, generous offerings. Thus, Bhagwandas was able to convert a man with the persuasive tale of true charity.