Linked Discourses 1.42

1. On Fire

Giving What?

“Giving what do you give strength?

Giving what do you give beauty?

Giving what do you give happiness?

Giving what do you give vision?

And who is the giver of all?

Please answer my question.”

“Giving food you give strength.

Giving clothes you give beauty.

Giving a vehicle you give happiness.

Giving a lamp you give vision.

And the giver of all

is the one who gives monastic quarters.

But one who teaches the Dhamma

gives the gift of freedom from death.”