Jain Journal 1982 10

Author(s): Jain Bhawan Publication
Publisher: Jain Bhawan Publication

Page 17

OCTOBER, 1982
But some back-biters can be found in every age. It was not otherwise in that ancient epoch also. One of them went to the king and said, 'Why the people are so happy? What is it's secret ?'
Astounded the king said, 'Don't you know that the saint-king is coming?'
"The saint-king Udayi? For that the people are so happy, eh ?' he said in a tone both bitter and aggrieved.
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Marking his bitterness and the air of protest, the king became still more astounded. He said, 'It seems that you are unhappy at his coming. What's the reason for such diversion from honour that is worthily entitled by the saint-king?'
The man remained looking at the king's face for some time. Then he said curtly, 'For me? Oh, no, nothing. But wait for some time, then your majesty will realise the cause of my concern.'
The king became perturbed at the thought of some unforseen calamity. Becoming grave he said, 'Now you have really made me perturbed. Give out what is in your mind.'
He read clearly the mind of the king. So he slowly said, 'If I give out my mind, then probably you will loathe to look at my face.'
The king became impatient. He said, 'It may be just otherwise Do you know why the saint-king is coming?'
'Now you are on the right track,' he said, 'Udayi is coming to take back his kingdom. Otherwise, why should he come to this capital leaving the holy company of Mahavira ?'
This made the king think for a while. Then he said, 'No, no, it's not true. I have heard that he is coming to show the true path to the
people.'
With what conviction he had to utter this, he could not master. So taking advantage of the weakness of the king he said, 'Then with your information you remain a mere spectator.' Then remaining silent for some time he said, 'Don't you realise that I am your only well-wisher ? These ministers, these lords subordinate to you, these top officials, Udayi's friends and relations are why so busy? Don't you see this offering of