法苑珠林 64.45

64.45

The bodhisattva reflects: “It is because of that beggar that I am able to realize bodhi. Now, because of giving, I obtain incomparable joy. If giving in the causal stage is already like this, how much more so unexcelled bodhi! The kindness of such beggars is extremely profound and cannot be repaid. If repaid with wealth and jewels, it would not suffice; I must give them unexcelled bodhi. By virtue of my merits, may it be that in future lives these beggars, like me now, become great donors and attain unexcelled bodhi!” One who does not remember kindness lacks a compassionate heart. Without a compassionate heart, there is no practice of giving. If one does not give, one cannot deliver sentient beings from saṃsāra. If one does not practice giving, one’s compassionate heart is obscured. Just as when inscribing stone one comes to know truth from falsity, one should treat even enemies as close friends.