Chapter 17 Verse 20
Śhraddhā Traya Vibhāg Yog
दातव्यमिति यद्दानं दीयतेऽनुपकारिणे।देशे काले च पात्रे च तद्दानं सात्त्विकं स्मृतम्।।17.20।।
dātavyam iti yad dānaṁ dīyate ‘nupakāriṇe deśhe kāle cha pātre cha tad dānaṁ sāttvikaṁ smṛitam
Word Meanings
| dātavyam | worthy of charity |
| iti | thus |
| yat | which |
| dānam | charity |
| dīyate | is given |
| anupakāriṇe | to one who cannot give in return |
| deśhe | in the proper place |
| kāle | at the proper time |
| cha | and |
| pātre | to a worthy person |
| cha | and |
| tat | that |
| dānam | charity |
| sāttvikam | in the mode of goodness |
| smṛitam | is stated to be |
Translation
That gift which is given to one who does nothing in return, knowing it to be a duty to give in a suitable place and time to a worthy person, is held to be Sattvic.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
This verse describes a pure, Sattvic kind of giving. A gift is considered truly good when it is offered without expecting anything back.
It also points to right judgment: give to someone who truly needs it, at the right place and the right time. Thoughtful, timely help is part of a pure action.
Such giving is seen as duty, not show. When you give from clarity and compassion rather than pride or desire, the act helps both the receiver and the giver's inner growth.
Life Application
- Give quietly and without expecting praise or repayment — for example, help a neighbor or donate anonymously.
- Look for the right moment and person to help: choose needs that are real and urgent rather than giving to show off.
- Remember that time, attention, and presence can be gifts too; offer them sincerely when they are needed.
Reflection Question
Did I give recently with a clear, selfless intention or to feel good about myself?