What is the importance of donation in Hinduism (Shatanika and Sahasranika story)
What is the importance of donation in Hinduism (Shatanika and Sahasranika story)
Namaste friends, how are you doing today? Bhagavan Sri Vishnu blessings to you and your family!
In the region named Jambudvipa, there used to rule a king named Shatanika. He was the best among warriors. But he was also very religious. He donated alms and treated his guests well.
Every day, the needy received gold and clothes from Shatanika. When Shatanika died, his son Sahasranika became king.
Sahasranika also ruled well and with righteousness. But he did not donate as much of alms to the needy as his father used to.
They took their complaint to the king and said, You do not give as much of alms to us as your father used to.
Many poor have already left your kingdom. So will the others, unless you increase the alms you give us.
I have indeed heard that the donation of alms to needy brings punya, replied Sahasranika.
I have also heard that all this...