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in perverse arguments, themselves greedy for sense-objects, constantly averse to future welfare. Relying on discernment, keep far away from sense-objects. Rely only on dharma, O Master, for happiness in this world and next."
Then the King said, his face charming with graciousness : “O very wise Svayambuddha, you have spoken very well. It is right that dharma should be adopted. We are not hostile to dharma. It should, however, be taken up at the right time like a missle accompanied by a charm. Who, pray, would be indifferent to youth, without showing suitable honor to it, like a friend who has come after a long time? So you did not give this instruction in regard to dharma at the right time. The recitation of the Veda to the accompaniment of a lute is not pleasing. For the next world as the fruit of dharma is still doubtful. Why at an inopportune time do you ward off the enjoyment of pleasures of this world ?" Then Svayambuddha, with folded hands, affirmed: “Do not doubt in the least that the fruit of dharma is inevitable. Do you recall that we as boys went to the park Nandana, and saw a very beautiful god ? Then the god spoke to you graciously, O King : 'I am Atibala, your grandfather. Disgusted with worldly pleasures as with a cruel friend, I abandoned the kingdom like straw, and adopted the three jewels. I made renunciation of the world, the pinnacle of the palace of vows, at the last minute. By its power I became lord of Lāntaka. You must not act negligently. When he had spoken thus, he disappeared like lightning that has lighted up the sky. Remembering your grandfather's words, believe in the next world. Why make another proof when visual evidence is present ?” The King said, “I am reminded of my grandfather's words to good purpose. I believe the next world to be dependent on dharma and non-dharma."
The chief-minister, a cloud for the heap of dust of
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