Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra Part 2

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

Page 41

16
CHAPTER ONE
Depressed and pleased by his son's speech which disregarded his command and contained the essence of nobility, the King said : “ You are my son; you are competent; you are learned; you are discerning. However, from ignorance rooted in affection you spoke thus without reflection. For in good families the command of the elder does not incur reflection 'Is it suitable ?' My command, though dubious, must be executed. When the son is capable of bearing the burden, the father is certainly free from the burden. When the son is strong, look you, the lioness sleeps without fear. Moreover, even without obtaining your consent I, desiring emancipation, shall abandon this world since I, son, am not depended on by you. Then you will support the world disordered and without a lord, but it will be a sin on your part to cross my command.80 So my command, producing happiness for me, must be obeyed by you intent on devotion, with or without reflection, son.”
The ministers said, “The speech of the divine prince, discerning by nature, is suitable. Nevertheless, do what His Majesty commands. For executing the elder's command is superior to all virtues. We know that the father's instructions have been followed by Your Majesty,81 also. Who in the world, more than the father, could give a command not to be disobeyed ?” So advised by the ministers, the prince, his head bowed, said in a choking voice, “ The master's command is my authority.” The King was delighted by the prince obeying his command, like a night-blooming lotus by the moon, like peacocks by a cloud.
Coronation of the prince (197-226) Then the delighted King took the prince by the hand himself and seated him on his own throne suitable for the coronation-sprinkling. At the King's command pure water
30 191. For this exceptional use of atiriktam, cf. Pañcaprati., p. 133, where atireka is so used.
31 195. I.e., the prince.