Srimad Bhagavatam — Navama Skandha, Shloka 9
Rantideva’s Supreme Charity and the Hastī Lineage
Hastināpura and Pañcāla Origins
स आदृत्यावशिष्टं यद्म बहुमानपुरस्कृतम् । तच्च दत्त्वा नमश्चक्रे श्वभ्य: श्वपतये विभु: ॥ ९ ॥
sa ādṛtyāvaśiṣṭaṁ yad bahu-māna-puraskṛtam tac ca dattvā namaścakre śvabhyaḥ śva-pataye vibhuḥ
Dengan penuh hormat, Raja Rantideva memberikan baki makanan itu kepada anjing-anjing dan ketua anjing sebagai tetamu. Baginda lalu memberi penghormatan dan sujud takzim kepada mereka.
FAQs
This verse shows King Rantideva offering even his last remaining food to dogs and their keeper, illustrating universal compassion (dayā) and respect for all living beings as part of dharma and devotion.
Rantideva was fixed in selfless service and saw giving as worship; even when hungry, he honored the remnants and offered them to others, demonstrating detachment and saintly generosity.
Practice conscious generosity—share food, resources, and respect with those in need (including animals), and cultivate humility by offering service without expecting recognition.