2. Trimantra Note About This Translation
(The Three Mantras)
Gnani Purush Ambalal M. Patel, popularly known as
Namo Arihantanam Dadashri or Dada or Dadaji, used to say that it is not possible to
I bow to the Lord who has annihilated all the inner exactly translate his satsang on the Science of Self-Realization
enemies of anger, pride, attachment and greed. and the art of worldly interaction, into English. Some of the depth
Namo Siddhanam and intent of meaning to be conveyed to the seeker, would be
I bow to all the Lord who have attained final liberation. lost. He stressed the importance of learning Gujarati to precisely
Namo Aayariyanam understand all his teachings.
I bow to all the Self-realized masters who unfold the path
Dadashri did however grant his blessings to convey his
of liberation.
original words to the world through translations in English and
Namo Uvazzayanam
other languages. It was his deepest desire and fervor that the
I bow to the Self-realized teachers of the path of
suffering human beings of the world attain the living freedom of
liberation.
the wonderful Akram Vignan that expressed within him. He further
Namo Loye Savva Saahunam
stated that a day would come when the world would be in awe of
I bow to all who have attained the Self and are
the phenomenal powers of this science.
progressing in this path in the universe.
Eso Pancha Namukkaro This is an humble attempt to present to the world the essence
These five salutations. of the teachings of Dadashri, the Gnani Purush. A lot of care has
Saava Paavappanasano been taken to preserve the tone and message of his words. This is
Destroy all the sins. not a literal translation of his words. Many individuals have worked
Mangalanam cha Saavesim diligently for this product and we remain deeply thankful to them
Of all that is auspicious mantras. all.
Padhamam Havai Mangalam
This is the highest. This is an elementary introduction to the vast new treasure
Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya of his teachings. Please note that any errors committed in the
I bow to the One who has become the Supreme Lord translation are entirely those of the translators and for those we
from a human being. request your pardon.
Namah Shivaaya Jai Sat Chit Anand
I bow to all auspicious beings of this universe who are
the instruments of salvation of the world.
Jai Sat Chit Anand
The Awareness Of The Eternal Is Bliss
3 4
3. commerce there must be religion. He also never took money
from anyone for his own use. He used the profits from his
Introduction to The 'Gnani Purush' business to take his devotees for pilgrimages to various parts of
India.
On a June evening in 1958 at around six o’clock, Ambalal
Muljibhai Patel, a family man, a contractor by profession, was His words became the foundation for the new, direct and
sitting on a bench on the busy platform number 3 of Surat’s step-less path to Self-realization called Akram Vignan. Through
train station. Surat is a city in south Gujarat, a western state in his divine original scientific experiment (The Gnan Vidhi), he
India. What happened within the next forty-eight minutes was imparted this knowledge to others within two hours. Thousands
phenomenal. Spontaneous Self-realization occurred within have received his grace through this process and thousands
Ambalal M. Patel. During this event his ego completely melted continue to do so even now. ‘Akram’ means without steps; an
and from that moment onwards he became completely detached elevator path or a short cut, whereas ‘Kram’ means an orderly
from all Ambalal’s thoughts, speech and acts. He became the step-by-step spiritual path. Akram is now recognized as a direct
Lord’s living instrument for the salvation of mankind, through shortcut to the bliss of the Self.
the path of knowledge. He called this Lord, Dada Bhagwan. To
Who is Dada Bhagwan ?
everyone he met, he would say, “This Lord, Dada Bhagwan is
fully manifest within me. He also resides within all living beings. When he explained to others who ‘Dada Bhagwan’ is, he
The difference is that within me He is completely expressed and would say:
in you, he is yet to manifest.” “What you see here is not ‘Dada Bhagwan.’ What you see
Who are we? What is God? Who runs this world? is ‘A.M.Patel.’ I am a Gnani Purush and He that is manifest within
What is karma? What is liberation? Etc. All the world’s spiritual me, is ‘Dada Bhagwan’. He is the Lord within. He is within you
questions were answered during this event. Thus nature offered and everyone else. He has not yet manifest within you, whereas
absolute vision to the world through the medium of Shree within me he is fully manifest. I myself am not a Bhagwan. I too
Ambalal Muljibhai Patel. bow down to Dada Bhagwan within me.”
Ambalal was born in Tarsali, a suburb of the city of Current link for attaining the knowledge of
Baroda and raised in Bhadran, Gujarat. His wife’s name was Self-Realization (Atmagnan)
Hiraba. Although he was a contractor by profession, his life at “I am personally going to impart siddhis (special spiritual
home and his interaction with everyone around him was exemplary powers) to a few people. After I leave, will there not be a need
even prior to his Self-realization. After becoming Self-realized for them? People of future generations will need this path, won’t
and attaining the state of a Gnani, (The Awakened One), his they?”
body became a ‘public charitable trust.’ ~ Dadashri
Throughout his whole life he lived by the principle that Param Pujya Dadashri used to go from town to town and
there should not be any commerce in religion, and in all country-to-country to give satsang and impart the knowledge of
5 6
4. the Self as well as knowledge of harmonious worldly interaction
to all who came to see him. In his final days in late 1987, he
graced Dr. Niruben Amin with the siddhis to continue his Work.
After Param Pujya Dadashri left his mortal body on PREFACE
January 2, 1988, Dr. Niruben continued his Work, traveling
Scriptures and religious leaders have described many
within India to cities and villages; and going abroad visiting all
ways of creating merit karmas (punya). One way is through
continents of the world. She was Dadashri’s representative of
charity (daan). The purpose of charity is to give happiness to
Akram Vignan, until March 19, 2006, when she left her mortal
others, by giving something that belongs to you.
body entrusting all further care of the Work to Shri Deepakbhai
Desai. She was instrumental in expanding the key role of Akram Giving is taught at an early age. When a child visits a
Vignan as the simple and direct path to Self-realization for modern
temple with his mother, he is taught to give money or food to
times. Hundreds of thousands of spiritual seekers had taken
the poor sitting outside. The parents give the child money to put
advantage of this opportunity and are established in the experience
in the collection box. This is how children are taught to give.
of pure Soul while carrying out their worldly duties. They
experience freedom, here and now while living their daily life. Gnani Purush, Dadashri, has explained the subtleties of
Shri Deepakbhai Desai had been given the siddhi to how one can incur a tremendous loss if while making a donation,
conduct satsang of Akram Vignan by Gnani Purush Dadashri in the proper understanding and internal awareness is not present.
presence of Pujya Niruben Amin. Between 1988 and 2006, he What kind of awareness and intention should one have when
has given satsang nationally and internationally as directed by making a donation? What are the most valuable types of
Dadashri under the guidance of Dr. Niruben Amin. Now these donations? How many kinds are there? To whom can you give?
satsangs and Gnan Vidhis of Akram Vignan continue in full force Dadashri has given us extensive information about giving charity,
through the medium of Atmagnani Shri Deepakbhai Desai. which you, the reader will find invaluable. This small publication
Powerful words in scriptures help the seeker in increasing will become the ultimate guide, providing the best understanding
their desire for liberation and thus they represent the path. The in matters relating to charity.
knowledge of the Self is the final goal of all seekers. Without the
-Dr. Niruben Amin
knowledge of the Self there is no liberation. This knowledge
does not exist in books. It exists in the heart of a Gnani. Hence,
the knowledge of the Self can only be acquired by meeting a
Gnani. Through the scientific approach of the Akram Vignan,
even today one can attain Atmagnan, by meeting a living
Atmagnani. Only a lit candle can light another candle!
7 8
5. Books of Akram Vignan of Dada Bhagwan
1. Who Am I ?
2. Generation Gap
3. The Essence Of All Religion
4. Science of Karma
5. Anger Noble Use of Money
6. Worries
7. Adjust Everywhere What Is The Purpose Of Charity?
8. Avoid Clashes Questioner: Why do people give to charity?
9. Whatever Happened is Justice
Dadashri: One gives because he wants something in
10. The Fault Is Of the Sufferer return. A person gives happiness in order to receive happiness
11. Pratikraman in return. People do not give for the purpose of liberation.
12. Non-Violence : Ahimsa When you give happiness to others, you will receive happiness.
13. Pure Love Whatever you give, you will get back. That is the rule. We
receive by giving to others and we lose by taking away from
14. Harmony In Marriage
others.
15. The Flawless Vision
16. Aptavani - 1 Questioner: Which is better, fasting or giving charity?
17. Aptavani - 2 Dadashri: Giving charity is like sowing a field. When you
18. Brahmacharya : Celibacy Attained With Understanding sow something, you will reap its fruit. Fasting increases one’s
internal awareness. However, the Lord has said that one should
19. Autobiography of Gnani Purush A.M.Patel
fast only to his body’s point of toleration.
20. Death : Before, during & After...
21. Money The Very Meaning Of Charity Is To Give Happiness!
22. The Current Living Tirthankara : Shree Simandhar Swami Charity means to give happiness to other living beings,
23. Noble Use of Money humans, or animals. When you give happiness to others, the
24. Life Without Conflict result of that will be happiness for you in return. When you give
happiness to others, happiness immediately comes to you.
25. Spirituality in Speech
26. Tri Mantra Whenever you give charity you feel good inside. Despite
giving away your own money, you feel good because you have
'Dadavani' Magazine is published Every month
done something good. When you do something good, you feel
6. 2 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 3
good and when you do something bad, you feel bad. Based on Divert Your Money Towards Religion
this can you not tell what is good and what is not ?
It is very difficult to manage money! Therefore, it is better
Solutions For Happiness ! to earn less money instead. If a person earns ten thousand a
year and gives one thousand as charity, he does not have to
Questioner: Should we give to the poor and needy or worry. Regardless of whether one person gives a million and
should we worship God for peace of mind? another gives a thousand, it is all the same. However little it may
Dadashri: If you want peace of mind, then you should be, it is still best to give. At least you will have diverted your
give what is yours to others. Tomorrow buy a carton of ice money towards a good cause; otherwise managing of money is
cream, feed some people, and see how much joy you get from very difficult. It carries a great risk and involves a lot of suffering.
doing that. As such people do not care for ice cream on a cold, It is easier to care for animals than to care for money. With
rainy day, but try it all the same for your peace of mind. Feed animals all you have to do is tie them on a leash and you know
the birds and animals some grains and watch them jump with they will still be there the next morning. Money however, is very
joy as they eat. You too, will feel joy within. These pigeons get difficult to manage. It creates problems and worries.
excited even before you throw the grains! So when you give Does Money Not Last With Gnan?
someone something that belongs to you, you will experience joy
Questioner: I earn ten thousand rupees every month,
within.
but why does it not last?
Say for example, someone is badly hurt and in order to Dadashri: Money that has been earned after the year
stop the bleeding you have to tear your expensive shirt to use 1942 does not last. All of the money that has been earned from
as a bandage, even then you will feel good inside. 1942 onwards is associated with demerit karma (paap) from
Where (To Whom) Should Charity Be Given? past lives, and that is why it does not last. This however, will
change in a few years. I am a Gnani Purush and still the
Questioner: Some religions say that people should donate money that comes to me does not last. As long as you have
a percentage of their earnings. What is that for? enough money to take care of your obligations, that is all you
Dadashri: There is nothing wrong with donating to religion, need.
but the money from the donation must be put to good use. If Questioner: What should we do when money starts to
the money is likely to be abused, then you should not give run low?
anything; give elsewhere.
Dadashri: Money is not something that lasts. You have
Make sure that your money goes towards a good cause. to change the way it is being used. Divert it towards a good
Otherwise too much money squandered in worldly pleasures cause. Whatever is spent towards a good cause is considered
can take you to a lower life form. Give your money towards a ‘real money.’ Money will last in a religious household because
good cause. Religious leaders however should not take the there will not be any conflicts there. In a household where there
money for themselves. is only money and no piety, there will only be conflicts. People
7. 4 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 5
earn enormous amounts of money, but that money goes to waste. punyas. A person can only be born into a wealthy family if he
It is only at the hands of those with a lot of merit karma, that or she has the same amount of punyas as the head of the family.
money will be spent towards a good cause. It is great merit It is not the punyas of the head of a family but the punyas of
karma (punya) indeed when money is spent for a good cause. the proceeding generation that keeps the family wealth intact.
Who can be born into the famous household of Kasturbhai? It
After 1942, money has not been of any quality. Nowadays
is only the one with same kind of punyas as his. Where can one
money is not used for the right cause. It would be very good
find such fortunate people with such merit karmas, nowadays?
if it were.
There have been few with such punyas in the last twenty-five
Money Would Last For Seven Generations years.
Questioner: In India money lasts for several generations, Otherwise It Runs Down The Drain
whereas here in America it lasts at the most, six to eight years
and then is depleted. Often a person who has the money will In the past, money would last for at least three to five
lose it and the one who has none will gain some. What is the generations. Nowadays it does not even last for one generation.
reason behind this? It comes and goes in a person’s lifetime. What kind of money
is this? It is money which comes as a result of past merit karma
Dadashri: The merit karmas of people in India are so but creates new demerit karma (paapanubandhi punya). There
sticky that no matter how hard a person tries to get rid of his is still some money which comes as a result of merit karma and
money, he will not succeed. Similarly, the demerit karmas are also causes new merit karmas (punyanubandhi punya). Such
also very sticky, therefore making prosperity very hard to come money inspires you to come here to satsang. It brings you here
by. Whether a person is a Vaishnav or a Jain, his merit karmas and makes you spend that money for spiritual and other worthy
are so tightly bound that he cannot get rid of money even if he causes. That money will go to a worthy cause; otherwise
wants to. everything will be lost without any gain. Everything will go down
There was a very wealthy and famous man from Petlad, the drain.
named Ramanlal. Wealth had been passed down through his Your children are enjoying your money but if you were
family for seven generations. The family was extremely generous to tell them this, they will tell you that they are enjoying their
and regularly donated large amounts of money, yet they never money, so how can it be considered yours? When they tell you
ran short. He had bound very tight merit karmas. People can this, it means that everything has gone down the drain!
also bind demerit karmas (paap) in the same way and
consequently suffer intense poverty for generations to come. Invest All Excess Money In Charity
They suffer endless miseries. Therefore, the karmas that one
People perpetuate the worldly ways by doing what the
binds can also vary in intensity.
world is doing. A Gnani would ask, “Why are you jumping in
In America, wealth fluctuates rapidly, whereas in India the this hole (life after life of misery) that wastes your hard earned
cycle of fluctuation is slower and wealth lasts for several money?” People climb out of a hole full of misery and fall into
generations. Nowadays however, people do not have such a hole full of money. Donate whatever excess money you have,
8. 6 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 7
towards a charitable cause because money that is sitting in the animals and birds, a lesser amount will be credited to your account.
bank will be of no benefit to you. If you donate your money you
Keep Your Mind Noble
will not encounter any obstacles; if you give it to charity, it will
be credited to your account (karmic account). Questioner: I used to donate thirty percent of my
earnings to charities, but now I have stopped. I am not able to
Change the Flow Of Your Money
do that anymore.
In fact, in the most crucial time of life, only religion will Dadashri: Since your intention and desire is to give, you
help you. Therefore it is important to let your money flow towards will be able to at a later time, because there is plenty of money
religion, the benefit of others. During Satyug (era of true value where it came from. But what can anyone do when the mind
and use of money), one could afford to be attached to money, becomes spoilt?
as it benefited all. Such wealth does not exist in this era. Why
do wealthy businessmen of today suffer from high blood pressure Does Wealth Come Because One Gives, Or Does One
and heart attacks? The culprit is the money of this era. Give Because It Comes?
What is the nature of money? Money is mobile by nature. One day I was visiting someone. We were sitting in his
It will come and go, so use it for the benefit of others. When living room and there was a bad storm. The doors and windows
hard times fall upon you, the only thing that will help you is what started banging in the wind. The man asked me whether he
you have given to others. Be aware of this from the start and should close the doors. I told him not to close all the doors.
put your money to good use. Fresh air can only flow in if the trapped air is allowed to flow
out. Otherwise no matter how strong the force of the wind, it
When your worldly interaction becomes pure, when you cannot enter.
have no desire to take that, which is not rightfully yours, the
world will be yours. It will not matter then if you enjoy life, This same analogy can be applied to the flow of money.
because you are also sharing with others. What else is there to If you do not obstruct it and let it flow out from one end, it will
do? Are you able to take your money with you when you die? flow in from the other and will continue to flow in. But if you
Whatever you spend for others is yours. That balance will be obstruct it, no more will come in. That is how it works. Now,
at hand for you in your next life. So, if you want a balance for it is up to you to decide the path in which it will flow. Whether
your next life, you should spend your money for others in this you use it on your wife and children, for fame, for Gnandaan,
life. This sharing is for all living beings; even if a crow takes a the charity that liberates others, or to feed the hungry, it is up
bite out of your food, it will be credited to your account. But to you. Only when you let it flow, it will come to you.
anything you spend on yourself or your children goes down the Types Of Charity
drain. Nevertheless, that is inevitable. You have no choice in the
matter. There are four forms of charity: food (ahara-daan),
medical care (aushadha-daan), spiritual knowledge (Gnan-
If you only feed birds, animals, and not people, it is still daan) and The State Of Absolute Non-Violence (abhaya-daan
considered feeding others, but because it costs less to feed - conduct that raises no fear in any living being).
9. 8 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 9
Charity Of Food or other medical help) is considered more valuable than charity
of food. If a poor man falls ill and cannot afford to buy medicine,
First, comes the charity of food. When someone comes
you should either give him the money to do so or go and buy
to your door at noon and says, “Brother, please give me
the medicine for him. He may live a few more years because of
something, I am hungry,” you should reply by saying, “Please sit
your charity. Charity of medicine is more beneficial than charity
down right here, and I will serve you food.” This is charity of
of food. Do you understand which is better?
food. Someone may interfere by telling you, ‘if you feed lunch
this robust man, what about his dinner? God has said for one Questioner: Charity of medicine.
not to interfere in such matters. Because of your charity, that
Dadashri: Charity of medicine is considered more valuable
man will live at least one more day. Tomorrow he will find
than charity of food because it keeps a person alive longer and
someone else to help him live. You do not have to worry about
gives him relief from pain and suffering. Many of our women
what will become of him tomorrow or in the future. When
and children regularly give charity of food and medicine. It does
someone comes to your home, give whatever you can. At least
not cost too much, but it should be done all the same. If a poor
he will live today, and that is what matters! Something else may
man comes to your doorstep give him whatever is ready at the
be in store for him tomorrow. There is no need for you to
time.
worry.
Gnandaan Is More Valuable
Questioner: Is charity of food considered the most
valuable? Gnandaan is even more valuable. Money donated towards
books that guide people on the right path towards their salvation
Dadashri: It is considered good, but how much can you
is all ‘gnandaan.’ By gnandaan one can progress to a better
give? People will not keep giving forever. It is enough to feed
life form in his next life or can even attain liberation.
someone just once. He will find his second meal somewhere
else, but today he lives because of that one meal! Nevertheless God has said that gnandaan is the most valuable and
when people give food, do they give fresh food or leftovers? highest daan (that can be carried out by ordinary people).
Where money is not involved, He has talked about abhayadaan.
Questioner: They get rid of their leftovers. What can
As far as money is concerned, he has said to give gnandaan
they do if they cooked too much?
and those of ordinary means should give charity of medicine
Dadashri: At least they are making good use of it! When and food.
one gives freshly prepared food, then I will accept that it is
Questioner: But if people have a surplus of money, should
correct. Surely there must be some rules of the science of the
they not make donations?
Enlightened Ones (vitarag); it cannot be haphazard. Any other
time you can get away with it, but not here. Dadashri: Giving of donations is the best. Give to reduce
people’s misery and suffering and use the rest on a constructive
Charity of Medical Help
path of charity. Gnandaan is the charity that leads people to
Charity of medicine (donation of medicine, doctor’s bills the right path. That is the highest form of charity in this world!
10. 10 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 11
You benefit so much from this gnan (knowledge) by So, for abhayadaan, one should first have the inner
understanding just this one sentence, so imagine how much more intention (bhaav) of not hurting any living being, even in the
can be gained if people were to read a whole book? slightest degree. Only then will this come into practice. The
Lord has called this the ultimate of all charities. No money is
Questioner: Now I understand exactly.
involved in this charity. This is the ultimate form of charity, yet
Dadashri: Yes, those who have more money should people do not have the capacity for it. Even those who have
primarily do gnandaan. money cannot give this charity. Therefore they should perform
their charity with money.
But what kind of gnan (knowledge) should it be? It should
be the kind that will help people of the world. The products of The Lord has said there are no other forms of charity
such charity are for the salvation of the world, not for aside from these four. People talk about other forms of charities,
entertainment. People enjoy reading books and fictions but it but they are all imaginary. There are only these four. As much
does not benefit them; on the contrary they regress in their as possible, your intention should be towards practicing
spirituality. abhayadaan.
Abhayadaan Is The Ultimate Questioner: If we do abhayadaan, does that
automatically include the other three?
Abhayadaan is where one’s conducts is such that he will
not raise fear in any living being. Dadashri: No. Abhaydaan is possible for only
extraordinary people and therefore even those who do not have
Questioner: Can you explain abhayadaan some more? the financial means can practice it. At one time the wealthy used
to do abhayadaan, but nowadays they lack the qualities because
Dadashri: Abhayadaan means that you do not hurt any
they have acquired and accumulated their wealth by depriving
living being in the slightest degree. Let me give you an example.
and threatening others.
When I was in my twenties, I used to go to the movies. It would
be midnight by the time I would come home. Walking home, I Questioner: So, have they done bhayadaan (charity of
would startle sleeping dogs with my footsteps because I had threats/fear)?
metal studs on the soles of my shoes. It occurred to me then, Dadashri: No, you cannot say that. Despite having done
what kind of person I was to startle the poor, sleeping dogs. this, they give towards gnandaan. Regardless of what they do,
After that I would remove my shoes each time I walked past at least they are using their money for gnandaan. At least they
them. This is what I used to do even at that young age. Don’t are doing something good.
you think the noise would startle the dogs?
Only Gnanis Can Give Abhayadaan
Questioner: Yes and it would interrupt their sleep.
Abhayadaan is the best. The Lord has praised
Dadashri: They used to get startled and naturally they abhayadaan. First and foremost give abhayadaan, so that no
would bark. Would it not have been better to let them sleep so being will fear you; then comes charity of knowledge, medicine,
that they would not disturb others as well ? and finally food.
11. 12 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 13
Abhayadaan is higher than gnandaan, but ordinary people people used to donate gold coins, isn’t that considered a form
cannot give abhayadaan! Only the Gnanis and his followers of of money?
enlightened beings can give abhayadaan. The Gnani’s followers
Dadashri: Yes donations of gold coins were given to
too, can give abhayadaan. They live in such a way that no being
only the Shraman Brahmins (Jain ascetics). They cannot ask
fears them. They will not disturb even a dog. This is because for
anyone for anything so people would give them charity of gold
an enlightened being, even the slightest degree of hurt to another
coins for their daily sustenance and for the marriage of their
reaches within, and hurts his self. Therefore we should live in
daughters. Back in those days the money-coins were used for
such a way that no living being suffers through the medium of
a good cause. Nowadays it is different, today even the derasars
our thoughts, speech and actions.
(Jain temples) are built from illicit money. Such is the influence
Money Involved In All Three of this time cycle!
Questioner: So is there no place for the charity of money The Gnani’s Viewpoint…
in these four major categories?
Questioner: There is often a dilemma about this, but in
Dadashri: The charity of money is included in gnandaan. your view, which is higher, donation for knowledge (vidyadaan)
When money is used to print books that impart knowledge, it or education or donation of money?
is gnandaan.
Dadashri: Charity of education is higher. Those who
Questioner: Isn’t everything being done through money have money should give towards education and gnan (spiritual
anyway? We need money even to give donation of food. knowledge). For gnan you should have books printed and give
Dadashri: Yes, money is needed even to donate medicine. in other ways to propagate it. How is gnan propagated? The
Money is needed for everything, but a donation of money for money should be spent only for gnan. Those with and without
gnandaan is the highest. money, should focus on abayadaan. They should live in such a
way that no one fears them. It is not proper for people to
How Can Money Be Given? donate money for prestige and fame. Monuments have been
Questioner: For any of the donations we should not give constructed for fame and prestige, but none of these monuments
cash, is that right? have survived. When are you able to carry forward credits of
what you do in this life? It is when you give for the propagation
Dadashri: Correct, money should not be given in cash. of gnan and education.
For gnandaan you should give in the form of printed books,
but if you want to make a donation of food, feed people cooked The Book That Helps Is Worth It!
meals. Nowhere, has it been written that donations should be in
Questioner: Thousands of religious books are printed
the form of money.
but no one reads them.
Donation Of Gold Coins
Dadashri: That is true, nobody reads them, and they just
Questioner: It is said in the scriptures that in the past, collect dust. You are right when you say that a book is worth
12. 14 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 15
something only if a person reads it. Nowadays, hardly any of enormous amount of wealth, as big as the ocean, and it also
the books are being read. Countless books on religion continue goes into the ocean.
to be published. Many people publish religious books for
Questioner: Wealth only accumulates in Bombay. What
recognition and fame. A book on religion is of value if there is
is the reason behind this?
gnan in it that helps one in practical terms. If such a book exists
then it is worthwhile. Printing and publishing such a book for the Dadashri: Only in Bombay does wealth accumulate. That
masses is a worthwhile charity, otherwise what is the point? A is just the way things work. The highest of everything is pulled
person is only able to print such books if he has the merit karma towards Bombay.
to do so. Otherwise the circumstances will not arise. Money will
Questioner: Is it because of the nature of the location?
always come and go; credits will always turn into debits. What
is your experience, do you only have credit or do you also have Dadashri: Of course, it is the quality of that land! The
debits? highest of all things are pulled towards Bombay. Even the green
chilies in Bombay are of the best quality. The greatest of people
Questioner: Both are there.
are to be found in Bombay and even the lowest and the most
Dadashri: So the debit-credit cycle continues relentlessly. worthless are to be found there too. Both the qualities are there.
You would not find such people in the villages.
Questioner: It should be like that.
Questioner: There are many balanced and tolerant people
Dadashri: But there are two paths. The debit either goes in Bombay, are there not?
towards a worthy cause or down the drain; it can only go
towards one. The entire wealth of Bombay today is going down Dadashri: The whole city is a fairground of people with
the drain. tremendous merit karmas; people with such karmas are all pulled
together. People of Bombay tolerate everything; if someone steps
Bombay - A Fairground Of People with Merit Karmas on their toes, they apologize in return, but a villager on the other
Questioner: Many people of Bombay give large hand, would slap that person instead! The people of Bombay
donations; they donate millions of rupees. can be called ‘developed people.’
Dadashri: Yes, but those donations are given for prestige. Wealth Going In The Gutter
Nevertheless that money is going towards a good cause, such People’s wealth is going down the drain. Only occasionally
as hospitals and medical care. does a person’s wealth flow on the right path, if he has the merit
Questioner: Do those people receive any benefits or karma. Can wealth not go into the gutter?
not ? Questioner: It is obviously going there!
Dadashri: Yes, they get a lot of benefits; benefits are Dadashri: An enormous amount of wealth is being poured
inevitable. The city of Bombay has so much wealth and because down the drains of Bombay. Bombay is the bazaar (market) of
of this wealth there are so many hospitals. Bombay has an attachment (moha). A person’s wealth will sweep away very
13. 16 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 17
quickly. It is all bad wealth. If it were good, it would be spent ‘overdrafts’ (donations) you send (to the next life), that much
towards a worthwhile cause. will be yours.
At the moment the wealth of this world is going down the Charity Means To Reap What You Have Sown
drain. All of people’s earnings are going down the drain because
Questioner: When there is no connection between charity
they spend it for their own amusement. Not a single rupee is
and the Soul, is it then necessary to give charity?
being spent on the right path. And when a person donates
money to colleges or schools, it is to boost his or her ego. If Dadashri: Charity means to give and then receive. This
money is spent without egoism, then it is good. But the charity world is in the form of an echo. There will be echoes of whatever
people give, supports their ego only through the recognition and you do and it will return to you with interest. Therefore if you
prestige they receive. However, this fame and prestige has its give, you will receive. In this life you are reaping the benefits of
consequences. What happens when that recognition turns into whatever you gave towards a good cause in your past life. If
slander and defamation? They suffer in agony. Instead it is better you do not do the same in this life, it will all be wasted. What
not to have any expectation of fame. Fame leads to defamation. happens if you use up all the wheat you harvest and do not sow
The one who has no expectations of recognition will not have anymore?
to face defamation.
Questioner: There would be no more crops.
Use It On The Right Path
Dadashri: That is precisely how everything is. Give to
Money comes and goes. At certain time you will have a charity. It will create an echo, which will return to you amplified.
lot of it and at other times it will be depleted, so do not wait in It is because you gave in your past life, that you are able to
supporting a good cause. Spend it on a good cause; otherwise come to America, to a better life. Otherwise do you think it is
it will go down the drain. People waste millions of rupees for easy to come to America? It is because you have a lot of merit
their own comfort. They now regret this and they agree with me karmas that you are even able to fly in a plane. There are a lot
that their money has gone down the drain. They should have of people who have never even seen a plane!
been cautious from the start. From now on they should be
cautious. Money is bound to come their way again. It will come Wealth Returns to the Same Place
and go; there will be a period of good times and bad times. If Dadashri: Was your household not wealthy once?
you spend the money for a good cause, it will be to your
benefit. That is the only thing that will come with you. Questioner: Such were the merits (punyas) of the past
karmas!
You earn so much but where does it all go? Down the
drain!!! Have you made any donations? You might say in your Dadashri: Wealth comes to those who have helped others
defense that you cannot give because you have none to give. So in their past life. It does not come to those who desire to take
where did your money go? Who ploughs the land and who away from others, and if it does come, it will not stay. Wealth
reaps the crops? Money does not belong to those who earn it, will only come to those who wish to give to others, to those
it belongs to those who to those who spend it. So whatever new who go out of their way to help others, to those who let others
14. 18 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 19
take advantage of them, and to those who are noble. It may A True Donor
appear to have gone away, but it will return to them.
True wealth never runs short. There will be no shortage
Greed Makes You Forget Charity of it even if you donated buckets full. It is not considered true
wealth when a person gives for only two days out of a whole
You can only give when you have the means to do so. If year.
a person does not have any money to give, he tells himself that
he would give charity if he had the money. And yet, when the There was an extremely wealthy man, who was known
ability to fulfill the desire for charity is arises, he pushes it aside. for his generosity because his family, for seven generations had
The nature of the human mind is to delay. He will say, “I only been giving to charity very generously. He would give money to
have a million and a half right now, but when I reach two million, anyone that came to him asking for help. He was a very charitable
I will give to charity.” However, that never happens, that day person. As he continued to give, his wealth kept increasing. I
never comes. In such charities, it is best to give without thinking witnessed this myself!
and planning. That is true wealth. What is the nature of wealth? Wealth will increase
Questioner: What if a person was to die before he tremendously if it is used for a good cause, but if a person
accumulates two million? cheats and steals from others, he will never be wealthy. If you
ask businessmen how their businesses are running, they will tell
Dadashri: He goes away and his wealth gets left behind. you that the profits are substantial, but for some reason they are
Things remain unresolved and he gains nothing. That is the nature not able to save any of it. We have a saying, “A thief’s mother
of a human being. When he does not have the money, he says puts her head in the kothi (large clay pots used to store grains)
he wants to give and when he has the money, his greed will and cries.” Naturally she would cry, because the kothi is empty!
blind him.
Charity is the flow of money and a true donor by nature,
People make all kinds of excuses when it comes to giving. is an expert in giving. He has the ability to instantly recognize a
On the other hand, if someone owes them money and does not person in need and offer to help in anyway that he can. He
pay it back, they become resigned and claim that they were not would offer to help a needy man whose daughter is getting
lucky enough to get the money back. They will let go of their married. He would tell the man that he is not able to give
money in those situations, yet they cannot let it go towards a money, but that he could make arrangements to provide for his
charity. Such is the inner kashaya of greed for money. It completely daughter’s wedding costs and even her jewelry. He would even
deludes them. You have to become strong and bold, because arrange to fulfill the man’s customary obligations of sending gifts
only then will you be able to give. That is why I tell you to at least to all his relatives. He would take care of all the man’s social
do something so that your attachment to greed does not control obligations, while simultaneously recognizing that the man could
you. If you cannot give a flower, give at least a petal, but do not be trusted with cash money. True donors are experts.
something. All you have to do is to give your support, even if
Investigate Carefully
that support is very little. Everyone should give in whatever way
he or she can afford. Even a sick person can give a little support. If you give money to a poor person, upon closer
15. 20 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 21
inspection you will find that he is not really poor but in actuality, Nowadays you cannot give cash. If you want to give
plenty of money. This happens because people have not learnt food, buy some food and distribute it. You should not give
to collect money in the name of poverty. It has become a business. packaged food because they will try to sell it for even half the
Where should you give charity? It should be given to the common price. What can one do in a world like this? If you buy them
man who does not ask for it, but despite living frugally suffers fritters, break them up into smaller pieces. You can also give
a lot from within. They are the ones in difficulty, so give to them, some yogurt to go with the fritters. If they ask you why the
the middle class. fritters are in pieces you can point to the yogurt that you are
giving them also. In this manner, they will not be suspicious that
Know Where Your Money Goes you think that they will sell the whole fritters. And thus you have
One person had a flash of gnan. What gnan? He thought ensured that they will consume the food.
that people would die of severe cold exposure. Winter had It is not possible for you to take care of everything.
arrived and it got cold in the home. Then what about those However, if someone comes to you and asks for help, you
people sleeping on the footpaths? This is a type of a gnan. He should help him, but do not give him money, otherwise it will be
had money. He went and bought a hundred new, inexpensive misused. That happens here in India. Nobody in this world can
woolen blankets of poor quality. The next morning at 4:00 AM solve this Indian puzzle! If you were to investigate the
he went around covering whomever he came across sleeping on whereabouts of the donated blankets, you would not have to
the footpath. When he went back a week later, none of the look very far. Just go to one of the shops nearby! Such is the
blankets were to be found. They had sold the new blankets for Indian puzzle!
money.
When will money be worthy again? Surely there should
He should not have given new blankets, instead he should be some principles or ethics where money is concerned. This is
have bought old, used ones from a flea market, so that they a peculiar time cycle, so should there not be at least some kind
could not be sold. If his budget was seventy rupees per blanket, of principles? How can things work without ethics?
he could have bought three used blankets for the price of one People will sell off everything. When it comes to money,
new blanket. Then he could have given all three to just one they will even sell their daughters. Things have gone to such
person who would use it for the purpose intended since no one extremes. One simply cannot behave in this way!
would want to buy them.
You can help a person with his livelihood, but do not give
So in the current time cycle, if you are making a donation, cash. Help him start a business. Money given to anyone who is
do so only after giving it a lot of thought. By nature, money of violent through his thoughts, speech and actions will only
this era is wrong, because it hardly flows towards good use. perpetuate violence.
Even when you give to charity, you will only be able to give
after you have given it a lot of consideration. In the past money Charity With Awareness Of The Next Life
was pure and so regardless of where one made a donation, it Worrying that your money will be used up cannot
went to a good cause. preoccupy you. Whatever money is spent is fine. The spending
16. 22 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 23
of money is encouraged because it destroys your greed and speech will give visible results and will be experienced in this
allows you to keep giving. life.
Upyoga is awareness. When you do something auspicious This Is How Obstacles Are Destroyed
or give to charity, give with the awareness and intent that others
will benefit from your donation. Give anonymously in order to Questioner: So should we make sure that we do not
avoid fame. That is called giving with awareness! That is called have any negative thoughts?
upyoga. There are some people who refuse give again if they Dadashri: That is not possible. You cannot help having
did not receive any recognition or publicity for their donation. such thoughts. However, your job is to erase them. The decision
Even when you do good deeds, you must maintain not to have such thoughts is called nischaya. You cannot stop
awareness. This awareness must be focused on what will be your thoughts; they will continue to come. You must however,
beneficial to you in this life and the life to come. That is called erase them before they create a new karma for your next life.
awareness. If this awareness is not there, then despite giving If you were to have a thought that a person should not be given
charity or service to others, everything you do will be done in any help, because of this knowledge that you received about
sleep (ignorance). All of your deeds will go to waste. If you give creating obstructions, you will have the awareness and you will
with the desire of being recognized for your benevolence, then erase that thought. This is similar to erasing the contents of a
that too goes to waste. Awareness is when you have an letter before you mail it. Then the problem is solved. But without
understanding of what is beneficial and what is detrimental for gnan you cannot erase anything! A worldly person (who has
you. How can one claim to have awareness if he continues to not taken Gnan) will never erase his mistakes in this way! On
give charity and yet has no idea what his next life entails? the contrary he will say, “Such thoughts are necessary, you
don’t understand.” Thus he only complicates his life further. By
This Is How Obstacles Are Created saying and maintaining this, he doubles his faults and reinforces
If one man is giving charity to a poor man and another them. The ego does the wrong thing; it causes harm to the
man interferes with his intellect (buddhi) and asks him, “Why owner. It is like slashing your own legs with an axe. It is self-
are you giving to this man?” he creates an obstacle for himself destructive.
by interfering. This obstacle will prevent him from getting any From now on you can erase everything through repentance.
help from others when he comes across hard times himself. In If you hurt someone through your speech, first make a decision
whatever situation a person creates an obstacle, that obstacle that you should not speak that way again and then ask for
will surface and hinder him under the same situation. forgiveness. This will erase your bad deeds. This is similar to
Questioner: What if the obstacle was created through changing the contents of a letter before you mail it. Your initial
the mind and not through speech? negative thought of, “Charity is not necessary for him,” is now
changed to, “It is good to give charity.” In this way your initial
Dadashri: The obstacles created through the mind have
thought gets erased.
an even greater effect. These effects will be experienced in the
life to come whereas the effects of obstacles created through To give charity, to help others, to have an obliging nature,
17. 24 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 25
and to care for others, is considered relative dharma. One Dadashri: Yes they hurt and abuse each other, but they
binds merit karmas by doing this. And by stealing, fighting, and do so out of ignorance! They do so because of their inherent
hurting people, one binds demerit karma. Wherever there are weaknesses of anger, pride, deceit, and greed.
either merit or demerit karmas, there is no real dharma (the
religion of the Soul). Real religion goes beyond both these People go out to earn more money even when their
dualities. household is running comfortably. Is it not clear that they are
trying to acquire more than their allocated quota? Everyone in
A Fifth Portion is For Others! the world is allocated the same quota but those with greed take
Questioner: What should we do in this life to earn merit more than their share, depriving others of their share.
karmas for the next life? Nevertheless what they do acquire is not by stroke of luck, they
acquire it because of their merit karma.
Dadashri: Donate a fifth of your earnings to the temples
or spend one fifth of your wealth for the happiness of others. At You acquire wealth because of your merit karmas but you
least this much of an ‘overdraft’ will carry forward into your should also spend it. It will begin to accumulate and it will only
next life! In this life, you are enjoying the ‘overdrafts’ from your be deducted if you spend it. It accumulates because of your
past life! Merit karmas of this life will carry forward to your next merit karma but should you not also know how to deduct it?
life. Whatever you earn as merit karmas in this life will help you
in your next life. So even by building temples, people are doing the right
thing. They are looking for a key to their dilemma. They want
Customary To Give To God to have a place where they can pray or do darshan without any
The Marvadi people are businessmen and they have found inhibitions. They are embarrassed to do so in front of the living
the key to profits in their business. They have a custom of Gods, but here in front of God’s idol, they will even dance.
donating twenty-five percent of their income to the darasars They will jump and dance around because they are alone, and
and temples every year. Do they need to be told to do anything? no one is there to point out their obvious errors! However they
You can only harvest what you sow! How can you expect fruits cannot do so in the presence of a living God. If they were to
without planting a seed? The Marvadis customarily give towards do all this in front of a living God, they would acquire salvation
religion, gnandaan, and other charitable causes. They do not without doubt. They would be liberated. But they lack this inner
give to schools or individuals. energy. They do not have such merit karma.
Should One Donate To Temples Or To The Poor? When people make an offering to God, it is with the
Questioner: We had visited a temple where millions of expectation of a reward. “Dear God! Please give my son, a son
rupees were spent on a stone idol of God. The Lord has said of his own! Help my son pass his exams! Help my old husband
that the pure Soul resides within all living beings. But here recover from paralysis!” Then he leaves 201 rupees. But who
people abuse and hurt living beings, within whom God resides does that here in front of me? (The Gnani Purush with the fully
and yet they go around spending millions of rupees for a stone awakened Lord within)? Do we have such transactions here?
they carve into an image of God. Why is that so? Besides who will even leave or accept anything here?
18. 26 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 27
Violence In Business Practices Dadashri: There are people who, despite giving charity,
go to hell. That is because they give under pressure, they do not
Questioner: Is it considered violence (hinsa) if a
give willingly. In this current time cycle, people do not have the
businessman makes a lot of profit but does not give adequate
kind of money needed to make a true donation. The wealth of
compensation to his workers, or if he himself makes money
the current time cycle is from dreadful deeds, and so donations
without working?
made with this money, on the contrary, causes more harm.
Dadashri: That is all a practice of violence. Nevertheless it is still better to give to a needy person than give
just for the sake of giving. What is the use of giving for fame and
Questioner: If a person accumulates wealth in this way
prestige? Feed and clothe the people in need. In this time cycle,
and spends it towards religion, what kind of violence is that?
where will you find honest money for donations? Here it would
Dadashri: Whatever he gives towards religion, whatever be better to improve your thoughts than to give charity. Where
he sacrifices, will lessen his liability by that much. If he were to can one acquire honest wealth when there is none? Whatever
make one hundred thousand rupees and give eighty thousand honest wealth there is, does not last. Today, large donations are
towards the construction of a hospital, then he would no longer made with ‘black’ money. Nevertheless, even though the money
be responsible for that amount. He would only be liable for is illicit, it is not considered wrong because, although the donor
twenty thousand rupees. acquired it through illicit means, he is donating it towards a good
cause. This frees him from his sins. Whatever he sows he will
Questioner: Is it violence when one hoards money? reap! At least he will reap some fruits for the seeds he sows!
Dadashri: That is considered violence. To hoard is
Questioner: There is a verse in a spiritual song, “A
violence because others are deprived of their share.
smuggler tries to free himself through a token donation given as
It Goes, The Way It Came… a cover up.” On the one hand he smuggles goods and on the
other, he gives to charity. Will he gain any benefits?
Everything carries on in the name of God and religion!
Dadashri: No, he will not gain anything and in fact that
Questioner: When a person gives charity, he gives in is a sign of going to hell. Those are considered thieving
good faith, but how does he know whether the person in charge tendencies. It would be better for a smuggler to live an honest
is carrying out his responsibility? life and give nothing to charity, than to smuggle and give a token
Dadashri: If your money is not good, then it will go donation. What is the point in taking a prisoner out to a park
towards a bad cause. Honest money will go towards a good just for one day when he is serving a life long sentence?
cause and dishonest money will go towards a bad cause! The smugglers and the black-marketers give large
Stealing Large Amounts and Making Token Donations donations to protect their reputation. This is called ‘token
donation.’
Questioner: Many people say that by giving charity, one
becomes a deva (celestial being). Is that true? Questioner: So are there no virtuous people today?
19. 28 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 29
Dadashri: You cannot expect to find a completely virtuous might as well give to charity rather than have the government
person! Those who make millions of rupees and give a donation take it from them.
of a hundred thousand rupees, do so to preserve their reputation.
Token donations only take place in this time cycle. It is very Give Without Expectations
important to understand this. Others who give charity are simple Questioner: Does it matter if one donates undeclared
family people with moderate incomes. There is nothing wrong money or money that is taken under the table?
with such people making donations. But those who give such
token donations do so to protect their name. They give for their Dadashri: No, it is a good thing provided it is used
false image. towards a charitable or religious cause. There is not a heavy
liability in using undeclared money. It is money that people do
Besides, are the donations nowadays, given or are they not show on their books to avoid paying taxes they consider to
taken away? And what is more, the money that is donated is be excessive.
money acquired through smuggling.
Questioner: It is not forbidden in the scriptures to make
That Money Binds Punyas
donations with the expectation of something in return. It is not
Questioner: Is it not acceptable to give donations of criticized.
black money?
Dadashri: It is best if there are no expectations. Donations
Dadashri: No, it is not acceptable. But if that black made with expectations are rendered futile. They are considered
money is used to feed the hungry, then at least someone gets to worthless. What I am saying is, give only five rupees but give
eat. With such money, there will be certain legal implications, without any expectations.
but not in any other circumstances. If that money were used to
pay a bill at a restaurant, would it not be accepted? That Is Camouflaged Money
Questioner: Yes it would. Questioner: Does black money not cause a problem
wherever it goes?
Dadashri: Yes, that is how everything starts.
Dadashri: It will not help completely. Black money also
Questioner: Can people earn merit karma if they donate comes my way but only about ten to fifteen percent.
black money towards religion nowadays?
Questioner: Does it help towards religion and elsewhere,
Dadashri: Definitely! At least they are giving up that
wherever it is used?
much of their money! Their punya will depend on their intentions
behind their donation! It is not just the donation that is taken Dadashri: It does not help. It appears to help but it does
into consideration. There is no question about their sacrifice of not take long for its effects to fade. It is like the war quality
the money, but it is where that money came from and what their structures that used to be created but they did not last long.
intentions are behind giving it, that is taken into consideration Have you ever seen those? They were mere camouflage. What
and calculated accordingly. Their intention may be that they is the point of delighting in such a camouflage?
20. 30 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 31
Shreshthi: Sheth:Shutha next life. Here, the importance is being placed on the inner intent
(bhaav, cause) and not on the action (effect) of giving. This is
In the past era there used to be very generous
the science of the vitarag Lords.
philanthropists. Such donors only come about when their mind,
speech, and body are in unison. God calls them ‘shreshthi’ (the When a donor gives with this unity of his mind, speech
best). In Madras the word has changed to ‘shetti.’ In Gujarat and conduct, he will receive tremendous benefits. The result of
this word is ‘sheth’ (wealthy businessman). this is beyond imagination. But people nowadays give because
they are pressured into giving, they do not give willingly and so
I went to visit a wealthy businessman who happened to
the benefits they receive are not as good. It is better to give
be out of town. His secretary said that he would be gone for
willingly and happily. Do people not give under pressure?
a few days and then commented that his boss should be called
a ‘shutha’ (rogue) rather than ‘sheth.’ I told him he should not Questioner: Yes.
say such things since he was on this man’s payroll. Still one
Dadashri: Some give for their own glory. They give
should not use hurtful words. Alas this is what the world has
because they want to maintain their reputation. They give for the
come to. In the past the sheths were respectable philanthropists,
sake of appearances, even though their heart is against giving
but this is no longer so.
and consequently the benefits they reap from giving unwillingly
The Inner Intent Is Paramount will be trivial. The reward one receives is based on what he
‘paints on the inner screen’ (inner intent). What will be the
Someone may have no inner intent to give. Yet for the
reward for the one whose bhaav is to give even when he
world he talks a lot about giving and also ends up giving. This
cannot?
will not bring meaningful results, because he did not have the
inner intent to give. Invisible Karma, Cause: Visible Karma, Effect
Questioner: Why is that so Dada? A businessman donates fifty thousand rupees. When a
friend comments on his generosity, he tells him that he only gave
Dadashri: When a person has the intention to give, even
the money because the mayor pressured him into doing so,
when he has no means, that person will bind punya and reap
otherwise he would not have donated even a single rupee. Now
the fruit of this intent in the next life, because his intention to give
what kind of a reward can he expect? The donation of fifty
is considered as good as giving. His intention is accepted by
thousand rupees is his visible (sthool) karma, which is visible to
God the same as he gave. He has profited by fifty percent
all and for that he will be rewarded with praise and fame here
simply with the intent to give.
in this life. However, his underlying intention of not wanting to
One man goes to the derasar (Jain temple) and puts only give, is his invisible (sookshma) karma, which cannot be
one rupee in the donation box, whereas another businessman discerned by others including himself. This karma is the cause
puts in a few notes of a thousand rupees each. Watching him do for the next life’s effect. The effect of this cause will be that in
this makes this man wish he too could do the same, even though his next life, he will not be able to give anything. Now who can
he does not have it. This wish is credited as his donation for understand such a subtle fact?
21. 32 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 33
The same people approach a poor man for a donation Questioner: But if in his mind, he continues to have the
and he replies that he only has five rupees, which he readily intention for more wealth, and because charging of karma is
donates, and also states that if instead of five, he had five hundred done through one’s inner intent, would nature then not fulfill his
thousand rupees, he would have gladly given them all. He states wishes?
this with his heart. His donation of five rupees is the fruit of his
Dadashri: No, he does not receive wealth that way. In
past karmas coming into effect in this life, the visible karma. But
fact, by having intentions for more wealth for himself, he will not
the invisible karma he creates within, will allow him to donate
receive any wealth. He will even lose the wealth he may
five hundred thousand rupees in his next life when that karma
otherwise receive. He causes an obstacle for himself. A person
comes into effect (visible). The invisible karma is charge karma receives wealth through his merit karma and not by making such
and the visible karma is discharge karma. bhaavs.
A man keeps giving donations; he gives to the temples, to Wealth is only acquired if one has charged merit karmas.
charities, and does many other good deeds all day long. He is However, merit karmas are charged for various other things, not
well respected in the community. Internally however, he has just wealth. Whilst charging merit karmas, if a person has a
negative thoughts and is preoccupied with trying to accumulate strong desire for wealth, then he will get wealth. Therefore along
wealth and ways to enjoy it. He has a strong desire to cheat with the charging of merit karma, if a person asks for specific
others out of their money and he covets illicit sex. He will not things, then he will use up his merit karma to acquire just that.
get credit for even a single rupee of his donations because his If one charges for religion, he will be rewarded with religion and
donations are all effect karma, visible karma for which he is may well be poor otherwise. Another will charge with the desire,
rewarded here in this life. People think visible karmas are the “I want a big home, big cars, big boats etc.” Then his merit
cause karmas that bind karma for the next life, but the visible karma will be spent for this and he will have nothing left for
karmas are realized in this life. It is the invisible karma, which religion. Another will say, “I want only religion, I want no worldly
will come into fruition (effect) and become visible in the next life. pleasures, a small room will do for me.” This person will then
When a person steals, the act of stealing is his visible receive that in the next life. So from his stock of merit karma
effect karma. The consequence of this is called an effect of he charges his account anew.
effect karma, that he may be disgraced and incarcerated. Lack Of Right Intellect Leads To Ruins
Use And Abuse Of Merit Karma Don’t you think that this science of the vitragas is
wonderful and liberating? How beautiful it is! If you understand
Questioner: Everyone is running after money, therefore
this, then you should take the opportunity to meet the Gnani
they create a heavy karma for money in the next life. Does that
Purush, and there attain the right understanding. This is samyak
mean they will get a lot of wealth in their next life?
intellect. People come to me for help even regarding their worldly
Dadashri: They will receive more if they charge with the dealings. Even if a person, who has not taken Gnan, was to
intention that they want to use their wealth towards a good spend some time with me, his intellect would be enlightened and
cause. his work will proceed. What predicament would he be in if he
22. 34 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 35
did not have this samyak intellect? If one understood just this one accepts it or not.
much, it would be of tremendous benefit to him.
You should give according to your own wishes. All these
Questioner: Without this change in the intellect, towards are merely worldly interactions. It starts with pressure from
the right understanding, there is no end to suffering. those who are out to collect donations. This is followed by the
Dadashri: Indeed there would be no end to it. We cannot ceremony of appreciation by garlands, speeches etc. Then the
even begin to talk about it. Even when a person is donating fifty person writes a big check.
thousand rupees, he tells you that he is only doing so under Donations, however, should be made anonymously and
pressure from the mayor otherwise he would not give anything. secretly. Do the Marvadis not give anonymously? Without
It is not enough for him to keep this to himself but he has to anyone knowing, they secretly deposit it near the Lord, and
brag about his shrewdness to others. His entire donation goes reap vast harvests in their next life.
to waste. You see this happening don’t you? Only those who
remain in this satsang are shielded from the hassles and Social Interactions
complications of the world. Questioner: From a worldly perspective, what is the
Donate Anonymously significance of the donations you made in Hiraba’s name
(Dadashri’s wife)?
Questioner: The one who has the Self as the goal, has
no value for pride and fame. Dadashri: In the worldly perspective, it is considered a
good thing.
Dadashri: Fame is very destructive. As a person
progresses along the spiritual path, fame is inevitable, but a true Questioner: We have to remain within the boundaries of
aspirant has no desire for it. Although people admire the brilliance social dealings.
and the beauty of a diamond, the diamond remains unaffected. Dadashri: It is a social custom, but it also looks good.
Despite the fact that fame is detrimental, in the worldly life fame However, I did not carry it out to look good. I did it because
is what people covet and it is to fulfill this very desire that they it was Hiraba’s wish. I do not care whether it looks good or
donate to schools and hospitals. Once they receive recognition, bad. Nevertheless I still conduct myself in a manner that does
they are satisfied. Some will even say, for appearance sake, not look bad.
they want the donation to be kept anonymous, while their inner
intent is fame. Questioner: We’re talking about you, but what about
us?
Only a very few people truly donate anonymously, other
than that everyone is hungry for fame. People praise and speak Dadashri: You have to do at least some of it. You do not
very highly of those who donate money. This public adoration have to go out of your way, but you have to do a little.
is the donor’s reward. The donor reaps the reward of his action
Effect of Merit Karma Is Spent Here Only
in this very life, whereas the one who gives anonymously will
reap his reward in his next life. The reward is inevitable whether Questioner: If the laws of karma are as you say they
23. 36 Noble Use of Money Noble Use of Money 37
are, then you have bound merit karma for whatever you spent Charity For The Self
for Hiraba.
Only that which you put aside for the Soul, will be carried
Dadashri: Why would I gain anything? I have nothing to forward in your next life. You will not gain any benefits for your
do with it. No merit karma is formed or charged in this. In such next life if you receive recognition and fame for what you do,
a situation, the merit karma is expended when people give you in this life.
praise for your deeds.
Questioner: What will carry forward?
And when you do something wrong, people will criticize
Dadashri: Whatever you do for the Soul, will increase
you and you have to suffer the consequences, here and now.
your spiritual energies and that is what carries forward to your
Everything takes place in this life. When one builds a high school,
next life.
he is praised for it here in this life. He receives nothing for his
next life. Questioner: And by receiving praise and fame, we use
up our reward (punya) in this life, correct?
Questioner: But the school is built for the benefit of the
children, for their education and for the improvement of their Dadashri: Yes, you will get the praise and it is all over.
minds. None will carry forward.
Dadashri: That is a different matter. But when people Feast Of Praises
sing your praise, all benefits for you are spent here only. Questioner: When I give donations, my intentions are
Can One Person Benefit Through Another? that the money be used for religious and other good causes. But
if people praise me for my deeds, are the benefits not lost?
Questioner: The benefit of your donation goes to the
person in whose name you are making the donation. You do not Dadashri: When large donations are made, they inevitably
get the benefit of it. become publicized and the donor receives praise. Anonymous
donations do not receive any recognition and so the rewards
Dadashri: Have you ever heard of such an incident where remain intact, but you should not involve yourself in the matter
one person does the deed and the other reaps the benefits? of future profits. You should not have any expectations for fame.
Questioner: But did you not make the donation in Even Lord Mahavir received praise from people, but he never
someone else’s name? You are merely an instrument (nimit) in accepted it. Dada too gets a lot of praise but he does not
the process. accept any of it either. Worldly people (not self-realised), on the
other hand, are quick to accept any praise because they have
Dadashri: If that is the case, then what is wrong in eating a hunger for it. Donations are bound to be exposed and people
for him as his nimit? No, it is not like that, this is just a ploy cannot refrain from singing your praise, but as long as you do
people use to deceive others and lead them down the wrong not accept them, what is the problem? The problem begins
path. How does a hungry person benefit if you eat on his behalf? when you accept the praise. The one who does not accept any
In reality the whole world is regulated under very precise rules. praise remains unaffected and therefore does not incur any loss.
