諸經要集 10.47

10.47

Furthermore, the *Ekottarika-āgama* states: At that time the World-Honoured One told the monks: Timely giving has five kinds of benefits. What are the five? The first is giving to those who have come from afar; the second is giving to those who are going afar; the third is giving to the sick; the fourth is giving in times of famine; the fifth is, when first obtaining fresh fruits and melons, or grain and food, to give first to those who uphold the precepts and are energetic, and only afterward eat oneself. Therefore, those who wish to practice these five givings should be mindful to give according to the time. If one performs pure giving that accords with the time, one will in return obtain timely retribution—that is, giving with a pure mind what is suitable according to the time. In cold times, giving warm rooms, felt blankets, firewood, hot food, and so forth; in hot times, giving cool rooms, light clothes, water, fans, supplies, and so forth; giving gruel when thirsty; providing food when hungry; sending offerings during wind and rain; and inviting the Saṃgha when the weather is mild. In this way, according to the time, one accords with their sentiments and makes them joyful; in the future, when obtaining merit, one will in return receive corresponding recompense.