Way of Life Part 4

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

Page 49

DISCOURSE 75
39
-- If you are generous, - If you are virtuous, - If you are polite and courteous
the world will praise you. These three virtues are of the utmost importance in the pilgrimage of your life. I will complete this discourse by narrating a historical event which illustrates this point.
THE PRINCE'S COMPASSION
This event occurred at the time when king Bhimdev was ruling over Gujarat. One year, there was no rain at all, Famine appeared. The farmers of the kingdom could not pay taxes to the king. The king put those farmers in prison. The king's officers inflicted great torture on those farmers. The prince, Mulraj saw this situation. He shed tears of compassion for the farmers. He decided to save the farmers from that misery
Prince Mulraj exhibited to king Bhimdev his skill in horseriding. The king said to his son. “I am pleased with your achievement. Ask for any boon. I will give it to you”.
The prince said, “Let your boon remain in your treasury". The king asked him, “Why?" The prince said, “I do not hope to get it." The king said to him, “Why do you think so? I will give you whatever you ask for”.
The prince said, "Stop collecting taxes from the farmers. I cannot bear to see their misery”.
The king was moved by his son's words. He shed tears of joy. Soon the king issued a proclamation proclaiming that he would not collect taxes from the farmers. He also ordered the release of the farmers from the prison. All the farmers of the kingdom were delighted. Everyone praised the noblity and magnanimity of the prince.