So too, if I, desiring merit, seeing a supreme excellent field, do not render service there, then I am not in need of merit.
Or suppose a minister seeking the royal seal of authority over the people of the court, does not give them money and grain, their authority dwindles.
So too, if I, desiring merit, seeing an abundantly worthy recipient, do not give gifts to them, I will dwindle in merit.’
Reflecting in this way, I took off my sandals and bowed to his feet, giving him an umbrella and sandals.
Though I was a hundred times more delicate and pampered than him, fulfilling my giving, I gave like this to him.”
The Conduct Leading to Buddhahood The Chapter With Akitti The Perfection of Giving (3rd) Kururāja’s Conduct
“Then again when I reigned in Indapatta, the capital city, as the king named Dhanañjaya I was blessed with the ten skillful deeds.
From the realm of Kaliṅga brahmins came to me requesting the royal elephant that was lucky and deemed auspicious.
‘Our nation is suffering from drought, food is scarce and famine abounds, please give the noble elephant of midnight hue named Añjana.’