Way of Life Part 4

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

Page 22

THE WAY OF LIFE
a merchant. His minister was with him. He asked his minister, “Why is it that so many lights are burning on this mansion ?" The minister replied, "Your Highness! these lights symbolise the wealth of the owner of that mansion. The merchant who is the owner of that mansion has as many lakhs of rupees as there are lights on the mansion”. The next day, Siddharaj sent for the merchant and asked him, "Noble man, how many lakhs of rupees do you have ?” The merchant replied, “Your highness ! I have eighty-four lakh rupees”.
The king sent for his treasury officer and said to him, "Please send sixteen lakh rupees to this merchant”.
He said to the merchant, "Noble man, now you need not burn so many lights on your house. Henceforth, the flag of a crore will fly over your mansion".
The merchant shed tears of joy and bowed his head to the king.
Now, you think what sacrifices will not people make for such a king and such a kingdom ? Is there anything that they would not dedicate to such a king? In the countries ruled over by such rulers, people would live fearlessly. They carry out their endeavours relating to Dharma (religion), Artha (wealth) and Kama (fulfilment of worldly desires) without any fear or worry.
PLUNDERING ON ALL SIDES
The desire for wealth in the men of power, now-a-days is limitless. The men of power now-a-days favour capitalism in their own case and indigence in the case of people. Communism, socialism and equality have merely remained slogans to be shouted. Everywhere people are being plundered. They are being crushed and exploited in an inhuman manner. They shout, "This is democracy!” But this is a terrible lie. It is not a government by the people but it is a government by rulers who are blinded by their arrogance. Where can people be fearless?
You have to be vigilant and cautious in this situation. You must adopt that way of life which would not allow you lo be