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THE WAY OF LIFE
of politeness and concentration ? Who has politeness? It has become common for students to make fun of their teachers. The absence of mental firmness and strength has become a common disease. The standards of education have fallen.
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Aryarakshit possessed a unique personality. He possessed a serene temperament and an incisive intelligence. He was not only polite and obedient but also possessed a vigorous intellect. He was reticent in speech but he was great as a speaker and orator. He completed his education in a few years. He earned the affection of his teachers; and the friendship of his fellow-students. Then, he returned to his native place, after sending a message to his father. Somadev made an appeal to King Udayan: "Your Highness! My son is returning from Pataliputra after having completed his education there. In Pataliputra, he has, by his virtues, increased your glory and mine. I wish that a grand reception should be given to him when he enters the city".
The King was pleased to hear what Somadev said, and at once agreed to arrange a grand welcome to Aryarakshit. He said, "Purohitji! I will personally extend a welcome to Aryarakshit. He will bring glory to my court. He will spread the fame of my court over the whole of Bharath (India). I am proud to learn that our court-priest's son is returning after attaining great scholarship".
The King also was a great admirer of virtues. How affectionate was he towards his subjects! In his court, great scholars and poets were given the highest honour. In his court, people always got justice. The people living in Kingdoms ruled over by such Kings lived in serenity and felicity.
To-day, the time is over. Let us see tomorrow how the King received Aryarakshit and how Aryarakshit worshipped his father and mother.
This is enough for to-day.
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