________________
THE RECOVERY OF DRAUPADI
sesame-seed. Formerly I was told by the sādhu Atimukta, 'You will have eight living sons.' Could these be my sons?" With these reflections, on the next day Devaki went to the samavasaraṇa erected by the gods to ask Nemi about that. Knowing her intention, the Master said, "These sons of yours were delivered, living, to Sulasã by Naigameṣin."
Then she, seeing the six sadhus there, her breasts flowing, paid homage to them and said: "It is a good thing, sons, that you have been seen. There is eminent sovereignty or initiation of my sons. But this is for my sorrow. Not one has been cherished by myself." The Blessed One then said: "Do not grieve uselessly, Devaki. For this fruit of former acts has developed in this birth. In a former birth 272 you took seven jewels from a co-wife. But you gave back one jewel to her weeping."
Gajasukumāla (116-145)
After hearing that, Devaki, blaming her wicked act in a former birth, went to her house and continued to long for the birth of a son. Sarngapāņi said, "Mother, why are you so sad?" She said: "What is the use of this fruitless life of mine? You were reared in Nanda's house and your elder brothers in Naga's house. No child at all has been nursed by me like a cuckoo. I wish a son from eagerness to care for a child, son. Even animals are happy, taking care of their offspring, themselves."
Saying, "I shall fulfill your wish," Hari went away and propitiated Naigameşin, Sakra's general. The god said: "Your mother will have an eighth son, but he, wise, will become a mendicant, when youth has bloomed." In accordance with this speech, a very magnificent god fell from heaven, came to Devaki's womb, and a son was born at the proper time.
Devaki herself cared for him, named Gajasukumāla, like another Kṛṣṇa in beauty, resembling a god. He was extremely
272 115. See Appendix 1,
36 N
281
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