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PHILOSOPHY OF SOUL
339
The Sage replied, "Oh, King, any narration falls in two types: innocent and vicious. Any talk of narration about a devotee, about a woman, about a country or about royal matters is vicious. The sages do not take interest in such matters but talks or discussions which enhance knowledge, faith or righteousness are innocent. Such talks do not disturb the meditation of the sages. Bear in mind this much and you can ask me whatever you desire to ask".
The king of Magadha said, "O Revered one, I merely intend to know why you have embraced the path of self-restraint in youth instead of enjoying various pleasures of life. What strong motive has led you to this path of abnegation ?"
The sage replied, "O King, I was an orphan. I had none to look after me and so I have embraced this path of self abnegation".
The king was very much astonished at this reply and said, "It is really surprising that a man of your excellences would not find person as the protector. If this is the cause why you accepted this life of austerity then I am willing to become your protector. I welcome you in my palace and please pass your life there in happiness and comfort".
On hearing these words, the sage simply smiled and said, "O King, one can only give to others those things which belong to him, and not the rest. The moon possesses light and so it can bestow it upon others. The sun is possessed of heat and therefore it can grant heat to others. The river overflows with waters and therefore it can satisfy cthers with water. Trees bear fruits which are consumed by others; but the moon can not give heat, the sun cannot give coolness, rivers cannot give fruits, trees cannot give waters as these things do not belong to them. Therefore, O King, you cannot be a protector as you are yourself an orphan and without a protector".
The king was struck with wonder to hear these words, which were quite unusual for him. Recollecting from his injured ego he said, "O Sage, from your words, I conjecture that you have not recognized me. I am the suzerain king of Anga and Magadha Countries. I rule over thousands of districts and millions of villages. I further own thousands of elephants, horses and I am the Lord of many heroic warriors. I further enjoy vast harem com
