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THE WAY OF LIFE
of their family. Only in that case do they deserve adoration and worship.
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Actually, Somadev and Rudrasoma were noble and adorable parents. Though Somadev was the court-priest, he himself educated his sons at home; and taught them the Shastras etc. If he wanted, he could engage another scholar to teach them. He had enormous wealth and power. Yet he taught them himself. He taught them all that he knew.
While educating them in the various Shastras, he also enabled them to bathe their intellects in the pellucid waters of culture. He bestowed upon them the power of spiritual vision. He placed before them the lofty ideal of Moksha. He enabled them to realize the true form of their souls. He enabled them to make an in-depth study of the Vedas. Besides giving them scriptural, spiritual and religious education, he also educated them in worldly matters.
As Aryarakshit and Phalgurakshit went on acquiring education, their esteem for their parents kept increasing. There blossomed in their hearts a special devotion for their mother who was the very embodiment of compassion and affection. They naturally began to observe noble principles and to practise noble traditions. They were observing noble principles and practising noble traditions not out of any fear or compulsion; but they admired noble principles and traditions; and so, they practised them.
Those who observe noble principles and practise noble traditions out of fear or compulsion discard them as soon as they are free from the fear or compulsion; and begin practising ignoble traditions and practices. Therefore, you should not use force or intimidation to compel anyone to observe noble principles and to practise noble traditions. Make them realize the greatness and value of noble principles and traditions. Make them realize the loss they suffer on account of ignoble conduct and principles. Inspire in their hearts love and adoration for noble principles and traditions. Set an example to your children by practising noble principles of conduct yourselves.
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