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52
FO-SHO-HING-TSAN-KING.
I, 5.
'Stop! nor speak such words, the time is not yet come for "a religious life,” you are young and strong, your heart beats full, to lead a religious life frequently involves trouble, 362
'It is rarely possible to hold the desires in check, the heart not yet estranged from their enjoyment; to leave your home and lead a painful ascetic life, your heart can hardly yet resolve on such a course; 363
To dwell amidst the desert wilds or lonely dells, this heart of yours would not be perfectly at rest, for though you love religious matters, you are not yet like me in years; 364
You should undertake the kingdom's government, and let me first adopt ascetic life; but to give up your father and your sacred duties, this is not to act religiously; 365
You should suppress this thought of "leaving home,” and undertake your worldly duties, find your delight in getting an illustrious name, and after this give up your home and family.' 366
The prince, with proper reverence and respectful feelings, again besought his royal father ; but promised if he could be saved from four calamities, that he would give up the thought of 'leaving home;' 367
If he would grant him life without end, no disease, nor undesirable old age, and no decay of earthly possessions; then he would obey and give up the thought of leaving home.' 368
The royal father then addressed the prince, 'Speak not such words as these, for with respect to these four things, who is there able to prevent them, or say nay to their approach; 369
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