Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v2.c35.2007

v2.c35.2007

Veḷāma was exceedingly wealthy and wished to give alms. Therefore, turning his water-jar upside down, he wished that if there were holy men in the world, the water should flow downwards. The water, however, remained in the jar. He then discovered by the same means that his gifts would be free from blame. He thereupon held great almsgivings, distributing during seven years the seven precious things and gifts of great value, pouring forth his riches as though “making into one stream the five great rivers.”¹