Stories From Jainism

Author(s): Mrugendramuni
Publisher: Jain Yoga Foundation

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9
SANATKUMAR
S
anatkumar was a very strict ruler. He made many kings his vassals and they had to obey and serve him.
He was very handsome. His beauty was matchless. People were wonder-struck by the beauty of his form. Once, Lord Indra began to praise his handsomeness. Two gods heard this and they were curious to see him. Hence, they descended to the earth.
When they reached the earth, they found Sanatkumar taking his bath. They saw the King's naked body and cried out, "What a beautiful body!" They found it like the golden rays of the Sun at dawn. Hence, they stared at him.
King Sanatkumar realised that the visitors were highly impressed by his beautiful form. So out of vanity he said to them, "You have seen only my naked body. See me sitting on my throne. I will put on a necklace with twenty strings of pearls. Then I would be worth looking at."
Hence, the gods went to his court in order to have a second look at him. The king asked, "How did you like it?" Soon came the reply, "A lotus with many petals blooming in a lake!" He was pleased to hear his praise.
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