Bhagavad Gita Chapter 17, Verse 20

English Translation

That gift is referred to as born of sattva which gift is given with the idea that it ought to be given, to one who will not serve in return, and at the (proper) place, (proper) time and to a (proper) person.

Detailed Commentary

Explanation: In this *śloka*, *dāna* (charity) is divided into two categories: (1) "That *dāna* which is given as a duty, to one who has not rendered any prior service" and (2) "in the right place, at the right time, and to a worthy recipient." Merely giving is my duty because I have accepted objects and considered them mine. Responsibility for giving rests upon whoever has accepted objects. Therefore, one ought to give. This does not mean that I should consider what its fruit will be. The essence of *dātavya* is relinquishment. Now, to whom should one give? "Given to one who has not rendered any prior service," meaning one who has never previously benefited us. This does not imply that one should not give to those who have helped us; rather, their favor should be repaid with genuine service, not merely with *dāna*. *Dāna* given with the expectation of a return benefit is *rājasī* (of the mode of passion). "In the right place, at the right time, and to a worthy recipient" means giving where there is a need. Giving the thing that is needed, at that very moment. Giving *dāna* in sacred places and at auspicious times, and to deserving individuals. Therefore, this *dāna* is considered *sāttvika* (of the mode of goodness). It should be understood that all things in the world are for everyone. Therefore, even to one who has not rendered any prior service, give according to their need, because if that thing does not inherently belong to them, another cannot truly bestow it. Even that which is not truly one's own, give it without considering it as such. In this way, *dāna* that severs one's attachment to the object, the fruit (result), and the act itself, is called *sāttvika*.