According to Osho, Mahavira’s conditions for accepting alms were intentional: to transform begging into a meditative discipline, prevent dependency and subtle exploitation, ensure nonviolence and purity in contact and food, and awaken mindfulness and responsibility in the giver. These rules safeguarded inner freedom and non-attachment, turning a worldly exchange into a conscious, purifying meeting of awareness.
He set tough rules so giving and receiving food stayed pure, mindful, and freeing for both sides, not a habit or a trade.