Chapter 17 • Verse 22
अदेशकाले यद्दानमपात्रेभ्यश्च दीयते। असत्कृतमवज्ञातं तत्तामसमुदाहृतम्॥
adeśha-kāle yad dānam apātrebhyaśh cha dīyate asatkṛitam avajñātaṁ tat tāmasam udāhṛitam
Meaning
That gift which is given at the wrong place and time, to unworthy persons, without respect, or with contempt — that is declared to be tamasic.
Tamasic giving is wrong in place, time, or recipient. It's given disrespectfully or contemptuously — humiliating the receiver. Such giving may do more harm than good and creates negative karma.
Strength Reflection
"I give at the right time, to worthy recipients, with respect and honor."
Devotional Surrender
O Lord, help me give wisely, respectfully, and appropriately.