Alms

Thorma Alms

Three monks chanting in Lhasa, 1993

Almsbowl2

Gift bags and medical kits to be given to monks

Codex Tennenbach 4 017r

Alms are a form of financial aid or charity given to those in need. The practice of giving alms is rooted in various religious traditions, with a long history of being a moral duty in cultures around the world. Almsgiving is considered an act of virtue and is often associated with compassion, generosity, and social justice.

Etymology

The word "alms" is derived from the Old English word ælmesse, which itself comes from the Latin word eleēmosyna. This Latin term is a transliteration of the Greek word eleēmosynē (ἐλεημοσύνη), meaning "pity, mercy". Over time, the term has come to specifically refer to the charitable giving of material help to those in need.

Religious Perspectives

Religious texts and teachings across various faiths emphasize the importance of giving alms as a form of spiritual practice or duty.

Buddhism

In Buddhism, almsgiving or dana is one of the perfections (pāramitās) that a bodhisattva must practice. It is seen as a way to cultivate generosity and detach from material possessions.

Christianity

Christianity teaches almsgiving as a form of charity and love towards others. It is often mentioned in the Bible, where followers are encouraged to give to the poor and support those in need, reflecting the love of Jesus Christ.

Islam

In Islam, giving alms is a significant part of the faith, known as Zakat. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making it a compulsory act for all financially able Muslims. Zakat is seen as a way to purify one's wealth and soul.

Hinduism

Hinduism also encourages the practice of giving alms as a way to support the needy and as a duty of the householders. It is seen as a moral obligation and a part of one's dharma.

Social Impact

The practice of giving alms can have a profound impact on society. It helps in alleviating poverty, reducing inequality, and providing relief to those in distress. Almsgiving also fosters a sense of community and solidarity among people, encouraging a culture of support and empathy.

Contemporary Practices

Today, almsgiving continues in various forms, from traditional practices within religious communities to modern philanthropy and charitable organizations. The concept has expanded to include not just the giving of money, but also of time, services, and resources to support those in need.

Criticism and Challenges

While almsgiving is generally seen as a positive practice, it has faced criticism for potentially fostering dependency or not addressing the root causes of poverty. Some argue that it is a temporary solution that does not tackle systemic issues leading to inequality and injustice.

See Also

• Charity (practice)
• Philanthropy
• Social justice
• Poverty
• Wealth distribution

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