The Practical Ways of Righteous Individual’s Donation According to Sappurisa-dāna Sutta

Abstract

This article investigates the practical approaches to righteous giving as outlined in the Sappurisa-dāna Sutta, a key teaching in Theravāda Buddhism. The study addresses three objectives: (1) to examine the general concept and significance of donation (dāna) from a Theravāda Buddhist perspective, (2) to analyze the characteristics and principles of righteous giving as prescribed in the Sappurisa-dāna Sutta, and (3) to explore the practical application of these principles in contemporary daily life. Utilizing a documentary research methodology, this study synthesizes insights from canonical Pāli scriptures and relevant secondary sources.

The findings reveal that the concept of dāna in Theravāda Buddhism extends beyond material generosity to encompass the cultivation of wholesome mental states, ethical conduct, and the intention behind the act of giving. The Sappurisa-dāna Sutta highlights several attributes of a righteous donor, including discernment of the recipient’s virtues, understanding the value of the gift, awareness of the appropriate timing, and the donor’s state of mind during the act of giving. These attributes emphasize not only the act of generosity but also the wisdom and ethical consideration underpinning it.

          The study further explores how these principles can be integrated into contemporary life. For instance, by aligning giving practices with mindfulness, ethical awareness, and social responsibility, individuals can contribute meaningfully to their communities while fostering inner peace and spiritual growth. The study also identifies potential challenges in practicing righteous giving, such as misconceptions about altruism and societal influences on charitable behavior. It provides practical recommendations to overcome these obstacles, ensuring that the essence of dāna aligns with its intended spiritual and ethical goals.

          This investigation highlights the transformative potential of dāna as an instrumental approach to nurturing compassion, mitigating egocentric inclinations, and fostering a cohesive society grounded in the doctrines of Theravāda Buddhism. By adhering to the precepts delineated in the Sappurisa-dāna Sutta, individuals are allowed to engage in acts of generosity that yield advantages for both themselves and the collective, thereby achieving an equilibrium between personal development and societal welfare. This synthesis of Buddhist philosophical insights with contemporary methodologies illustrates the persistent significance of Buddhist tenets in promoting a compassionate and ethically principled world.