法苑珠林 33.7

33.7

如佛說福田經云。佛告天帝。復有七法廣施。名曰福田。行者得福即生梵天。何謂為七。一者興立佛圖僧房堂閣。二者園果浴池樹木清涼。三者常施醫藥療救眾病。四者作牢堅船濟度人民。五者安設橋梁過度羸弱。六者近道作井渴乏得飲。七者造作圊廁施便利處。是為七事得梵天福。

As stated in the *Buddha-bhāṣita-puṇyakṣetra-sūtra*, the Buddha told the Lord of the Devas: "Furthermore, there are seven dharmas of widespread giving, which are called fields of merit (puṇyakṣetra); practitioners who obtain these blessings will be reborn in the Brahmā heaven. What are the seven? First, to erect Buddhist stūpas, monastic quarters, and hall pavilions. Second, to provide fruit orchards, bath ponds, and trees for shade and coolness. Third, to constantly give medicine to heal and save various sicknesses. Fourth, to build sturdy and secure boats to ferry people across. Fifth, to construct bridges to transport the weak and infirm. Sixth, to dig wells near the roads so that the thirsty and parched may drink. Seventh, to build privies and provide latrines. These are the seven things by which one attains the blessings of the Brahmā heaven."