Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra Part 1

Author(s): Hemchandracharya, Helen M Johnson
Publisher: Oriental Research Institute Vadodra

Page 234

CHAPTER IV
Preparations for expedition of conquest (1-39)
Now, the Cakrin Bharata, eager for the cakra as for a guest, went to the armory by the central road in Vinītā. At the mere sight of it the King bowed. For warriors look upon a weapon as a chief-divinity in person. Then taking a woolen brush, Bharata cleaned it. For that is the practice among the devoted-no dust on such a jewel. The King bathed it with pure water, as the eastern ocean bathes the rising sun. On it, just as on the back of a chief-elephant, the King put tilakas of gosirsa-sandal indicating it was entitled to worship. The King worshipped it, as if it were the Śri of victory in person, with flowers, perfumes, fragrant-powder, clothes, and ornaments. In front of it, he designed the eight auspicious things with silver rice, and in front of each auspicious thing enclosed a Śri of the eight quarters. In front of it (the cakra), the King made an offering of five-colored flowers that made the earth have various colors. The King then burned the best incense consisting of divine sandal and camphor zealously, as if it were the glory of his enemies, before the cakra. Then the Cakradhara made the pradakṣiņa three times to the cakra and stepped back seven or eight steps, as if before a teacher. Then bending the left knee, and placing the right on the ground, the King paid homage to the cakra, as suppliants did to him. Taking up his residence in that very place, the King like joy embodied made an eight-day festival in honor of the cakra. The wealthy citizens also made a puja-festival to the cakra. For one that is worshipped by persons who are worshipped (by others), by whom is he not worshipped?