The Yoga of the Threefold Faith

Krishna begins describing the three kinds of charity (dāna), starting with sattvic charity. 'Dātavyam iti yad dānaṁ dīyate 'nupakāriṇe'—charity (dānam) that is given (dīyate) with the thought 'it should be given' (dātavyam iti), to one who does not repay (anupakāriṇe). 'Deśe kāle ca pātre ca'—in the right place (deśe), at the right time (kāle), and to a worthy person (pātre). 'Tad dānaṁ sāttvikaṁ smṛtam'—that charity (dānam) is known (smṛtam) to be sattvic (sāttvikam). Sattvic charity is given selflessly, with the attitude that it should be given, to those who need it, at the right place and time, without expectation of return. Understanding this helps you recognize and practice sattvic charity.