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INSPIRING STORIES
belongs to me exclusively I cannot find my exclusive dominion anywhere, not even in Mithila and in my own progeny. Now real wisdom has dawned in me. I am now under the impression that either I have no dominion at all or all is my dominion. Either this body is not mine or the whole world is mine, and similarly that of others too. O best of the twice-born' This is my firm conviction. Stay in my dominion as long as you like and enjoy'
The Brahmin asked: "O king' What has made you regard this kingdom as not yours or all as yours? How have you renounced the feeling of 'mine-ness' in this kingdom of your ancestors, which you are ruling?" Janak replied: "Everything is perishable on the physical plane. Life is evanescent. Everything passes away I could lay my finger on nothing which I could call as mine. I remembered the Vedic text. 'It was anybody's property.' I reflected in this manner and so I have given up the idea of 'mine-ness'. Hearken carefully now as to how I see my dominion everywhere I have no desire for the objects that give good smell so I have conquered the earth. I have no desire for tasty things, beautiful forms, soft cushions or beds, or music: therefore I have conquered water, fire, air and ether. I do not desire anything for the mind, it is therefore under my perfect control. I do actions for the Devas, ancestors, for all beings and for those who come to my door."
Then the Brahmin smiled and said. "O king! I am
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