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Then, he, the ruler of Magadha, king Srenika laughed (and said) how is there no protector for a prosperous man like you?
For the venerable persons (like you) I become the protector. Oh self-controlled! surrounded by friends and relatives, you enjoy sensual pleasures. In fact, human birth is very difficult (to attain).
Oh ruler of Magadha! Oh Srenika! even you yourself are without refuge. Becoming yourself without refuge, whose protector you will become?
When this was said by the saint, in this way then, (having heard) such words as were not heard before, that king (who was) endowed with surprise became very wonderstruck and too confused.
Elephants, horses and men are in my (possession), cities and palaces are in my (kingdom), I enjoy sensual pleasures related to human beings, my sovereignty and command are in vogue.
In such abundance of prosperity - where all the desired objects have been dedicated to someone, how will that one be without refuge? Oh venerable! so do not tell a lie in your statements.
Pråkrta Prose and Verse Jain Education International
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