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380
VAJJALAGGAM
[ 746
89. The Section on the Ocean 746) Even though the gem might have been thrown out by the ocean, who has no appreciation of its virtues (or worth), still the emerald-piece is esteemed highly wherever it goes.
747) The Kaustubha gem, though thrown out by the ocean, Teached (attained to) the broad (expansive) chest of Murāri (i.e. rose to the exalted position of being used as an ornament on the chest of Vişnu). We, however, wonder who was put by the ocean in its place (i e. how the void, created by the loss of the Kaustubha gem, was filled up by the ocean).
748) Do not look only at the faults of a person, but praise even the rare virtues that he possesses. The ocean, though abounding in worthless cowries (shells), is still called “the repertory of gems" in this world !
749) A gem, though it may be forced (driven) into a mountain-stream, being pushed by the (ocean's) mighty waves advancing on the shore, still it once again gravitates into its (natural) course and returns into the ocean.
750) Even in the absence of Lakşmi (the Goddess of wealth), the serenity of the ocean remains as it was before. But tell me, to whose abode has that Lakşmi not wandered, in the absence of the ocean (i.e. when separated from the ocean or set free from the ocean) ?
751) The ocean has been seized by the submarine fire, it was churned (agitated) by all the Gods and the demons,and it was even deserted by Lakşmi. But behold its serenity (gravity)!
752) Oh milk-ocean, you always bear fire and water, nectar and poison, Vişņu (Kșşņa) and the demons (who are his enemies) together. Your surpassing greatness is always on the increase.
753) The ocean, though thickly packed with gems, is never elated with pride. But the glance (eye) of the elephant is delirisous with arrogance, although it is doubtful if its head possesses any pearl at all.
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