Way of Life Part 3

Author(s): Bhadraguptasuri
Publisher: Vishvakalyan Prakashan Trust Mehsana

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THE WAY OF LIFE
you to deceive your friend? The duty of a Chief Minister is to guide the King on the right path when he strays from it. In his concern for your welfare, he should not even care to lose his position. He should guide you on the path of duty". The whole court was stunned. Dark shadows appeared on the face of the Chief Minister. The merchant was agitated by joy, elation worry and fear. The King was calm and peaceful. The courtiers were delighted to hear her words and they were still and silent. For the first time a person had spoken out bitter truths openly in the court. That too, it was a young lady. .
The King said, “Daughter, can you answer my questions?” She said, "Yes, sir. I can. Here is the answer to your first question, "That which always keeps increasing in this world is greed for wealth." Is it not the right answer ? Please ask your Chief Minister. This is the answer to your second question: "That which always keeps decreasing is age". Is it not the right answer? Ask your Chief Minister if I am not right”.
The King said, “Daughter! Your answers are absolutely right; and whatever you said about me and the Chief Ministe also is right. I announce here and now that he shall be removed from the position of Chief Minister; and that I will never think of confiscating the wealth of my subjects”.
SEEK THE REFUGE OF A CAPABLE MAN FOR SAFETY
The King possessed a plain and open heart: so he appreciated the words of the young lady. If he did not possess such a heart he could have harmed her. In the days of Kingship, people had to see whether the King possessed a kind heart or not; and what religion he followed.
Next, the people had to see whether the King was a mano pure and noble conduct and whether he followed noble con. ventions or not. If the refuge was noble. the people seeking that refuge would be safe and happy. Thirdly, they had to see whether the King possessed courage. ability and heroism. If the King was courageous and canable, he would protect his people from the invading enemies. If the King was not courageous and