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Christian Lindtner
Jambū-jyoti
7.
It could not be so bad [to give] such alms to such [miserable people] for, of course, in this way they do not cause derogation of dharma, for they merely awaken our compassion.
Also, it must be understood, that those who give (alms] to them will get a reward that depends on the field [i.e. the kind of person who receives the alms), or on the intention (on the part of the donor). This is a pure and rewarding [kind of alms].
VI. Eight Verses on Alms that Produce All Perfections
1.
When the food [offered] to an ascetic is not made, not ordered to be made by others, and not at all prepared for him, only then) is it declared to be pure [and] purifying.
2.
Opponent : But if [the food) is not prepared [for him) in advance, then how can one give it [to him] with the intention of offering it? So it is wrong to say that it is pure !
3.
Reply : This is not the case, for alms should only be received in the house of good householders. There is no other place that one could otherwise strive for the good of oneself and others.
Opponent : But when the [food) is spoiled, then, in particular, there is an intention !-Reply : Such a refutation would not be correct as long as (we are] speaking of beggars !
5.
We should also mention the object of such an [intention] : It is for the sake of good karma, and it has to be due to the impossibility of naming the [mendicant) in question. (This is what a pure intention must be like). Otherwise a “competent” (person], is not (really] competent.
6.
If one has an intention, for one's own enjoyment of a thing, where the gift is parted out, then, at the time of action, it is bad as an object of both [persons involved).
But, in the case of an undertaking suitable to oneself, a corresponding intention is under no circumstances bad. This is because it is a pure attitude; it is like association with something else that is pure.
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