Spiritual Stories

Author(s): Raman Maharshi
Publisher: Ramanasramam Tiruvannamalai

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replied the brahmin. Sambandha asked him in surprise, Arunachala! But how long ago did you come here?' The brahmin replied indifferently, 'How long ago? Daily I come here in the morning to gather flowers to make a garland for Lord Arunachala and return there by the afternoon”. Sambandha was surprised and said, 'Is that so? But they said it is very far from here?' The old brahmin said, Who told you so? You can reach there in one stride. What is there great in it?' Having heard that, Sambandha became anxious to visit Arunachala and asked, 'If so, can I walk there?' The old man replied, “Ah! If an aged man like me goes there and comes here daily, can't a youth like you do it? What are you saying?' With great eagerness Sambandha asked, “Sir, if that is so, please take me also along with you, and started at once with all his entourage. The brahmin was going in advance and the party was following behind. Suddenly the brahmin disappeared.
“As the party was looking here and there, in confusion, a group of hunters surrounded them, and robbed them of the palanquin, umbrella, golden bells, the pearls and other valuable items, their provisions and even the clothes they were wearing. They were left with only their loin cloths. They did not know the way; it was very hot and there was no shelter, and all were hungry as it was time for taking food. What could they do?
“Then Sambandha prayed to God, 'Oh! Lord, why am I being tested like this? I don't care what happens to me, but why should these followers of mine be put to this hard test?' On hearing those prayers, God appeared in his real form and said, ‘My son, these hunters too are my pramatha ganas (personal attendants). They deprived you of all your possessions as it is best to proceed to the worship of Lord Arunachala without any show or pomp. All your belongings will be restored to you as soon as you reach there. It is noon time now. You may enjoy the feast and then proceed further’. So saying he disappeared.