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Dāra or Dāna is one of the niyamas in yoga. This principle refers to giving—or, in other words, a gift through which one expresses gratitude and bestows goodness.

Yoga is the transmission of energy; it is a gift from God that cannot be bought or sold. Therefore, in the yoga tradition, an offering is made as a sign of gratitude and respect for the knowledge received.
Spiritual knowledge is priceless and immeasurable, for human birth is rare, and even rarer is the realization of one’s inner “Self.” Throughout the ages, those who study spiritual knowledge and comprehend the science of the soul are provided with food and shelter, so long as they turn to their origins.

Knowledge is light. For knowledge to exist, it must be nurtured like a burning fire in a fireplace.

Why say thank you?

An act of offering is the heart’s response to the inspiration received and its realization; moreover, it is the ability to intuitively assimilate the teachings. An offering is made without expecting personal gain or dictating how it should be used. Such a gift is revered as a source of grace, generosity, and wisdom, through which one experiences the transformative power of giving. It is a natural act of giving and receiving, inherent in the nature of our soul.

The Principle of Non-Possession

The practice of spiritual development allows for the acceptance of “alms.” Almsgiving is considered an ascetic feat. It is also an important exercise for subduing pride, practiced since ancient times by hermits, ascetics, yogis, and monks of various religions. Alms should not be equated with begging, a parasitic lifestyle, or idleness. This practice is based on the principle of non-possession—that is, contentment with what comes naturally—and on freedom from anxiety about the future.

“According to the Vedic tradition, householders should provide food to yogis and renunciants. In return, yogis should pray for the entire world, including the householders from whom they receive alms.” (Yoga Rahasyam)

This type of relationship is not motivated by profit. It is based on voluntary, non-repayable giving—that is, doing something good without expecting anything in return. This system of relationships, based on giving without expectation of return, fosters a redistribution of values in society.   Gratitude—a realm of mutual trust and connection, of natural, sincere relationships—is a realm of the soul.

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