Story of the week - Character

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Story of the weekSaturday, November 29, 2003- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

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Character

Prahlad was not only a devotee of Lord Narayana but also a very righteous king.

He was the most bountiful of kings. He would never say 'no' to anyone who

approached him for a favour, gift or help.

Once Indra intending to test Prahlad, came to him in the guise of a Brahmin.

Prahlad offered his respects to him and asked: "What do you seek of me. How can

I make you happy? The Brahmin replied: "Oh king! I want you to gift me your

Sheela (character). Prahlad said: "So be it. Your wish is fulfilled. I am

gifting away my Sheela to you." The Brahmin left the court. No sooner did the

Brahmin leave, then a charming young man was seen walking away from the royal

court. Prahlad questioned him: "Sir! Who are you. The young man replied: "I am

fame. I cannot stay with you any longer since Sheela has left you." Prahlad

permitted him to leave.

A few seconds later, yet another handsome man was seen walking away from the

court. Prahlad asked, "May I know who you are?" The man replied: I am valour.

How can I be with you without Sheela and fame? I am therefore leaving." Prahlad

permitted him to leave.

Soon, a charming lady was leaving the court in hurried steps. Prahlad asked her:

"Mother, may I know who you are?I am Rajyalakshmi, the presiding deity of

this kingdom." She replied and added: "I can't live here without Sheela, fame

and valour. Then a lady was seen moving away with tears in her eyes. Prahlad

ran towards her and asked: "Mother, who are you?" She said: "Son! I am Dharma

Devatha (righteousness). I don't have a place where there is no Sheela, fame

and valour. Even Rajyalakshmi has left you."

Prahlad fell at her feet and said: "Mother, I can live without Sheela, fame,

valour and Rajyalakshmi but I cannot live without you. How can I send you

anywhere. It is the duty of the king to protect Dharma. Dharma alone is the

basis of the entire world. Please stay with me. Do not forsake me."

Dharma Devatha agreed to stay. When Dharma Devatha agreed to stay, all the

others also returned to the court and said: "We cannot exist without Dharma

Devatha. Let us please be with you."

Lord Indra tested Prahlad only to illustrate to the world the greatness of

Prahlad, which was founded only on his practice of Dharma.

— Sri Sathya Sai Baba

Source: Chinna Katha II, 143

http://beaskund.helloyou.ws/askbaba/stories/s1048.html

 

 

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