Page 47 - Courage Redifined
P. 47
ahead, Kumarpal would kill Arnoraja and then, where was the
need for protecting him ? Thus, forcibly Arnoraja’s army had
to cry out loud, “Long live King Kumarpal”, thus indicating
Kumarpal’s victory so that Arnoraja’s life could be saved.
As soon as Kumarpal’s victory cries filled the atmosphere,
King Kumarpal’s army also rejoiced and stood by Kumarpal’s
side.
Now, isn't this a great example of Kumarpal’s victory over
greed. Arnoraja had committed two great crimes- insulting a
Jain Sadhu and bribing Kumarpal’s army. Both these crimes
where so big that even if Kumarpal would spare his life, he
could keep him imprisoned for life and capture his state. But
he did not become greedy. Instead he forgave him and gave
his state back to him.
Q. : But, didn't he do so, out of the love for his sister ?
A. : No. If he wanted to do it out of the love for his sister,
he could have kept him as a prisoner in his huge palace
and provide him with all the facilities and comforts. His
sister’s happiness wouldn't get hampered in this way. This
means that he let go of Arnoraja’s state by overcoming
his greed and not out of concern for his sister.
Being greedy is not only harmful for the soul but may also
cause problems in the future. Imprisoned Arnoraja could have
made up some plan to take revenge against him. Hence, he
considered it better to generously give his state back and
ensure that he stayed under his obligation all his life.
Worldly benefits in overcoming greed :
This fact should be understood by one and all. Because of
greed one runs ahead fast and seems to have earned a lot but
he actually ends up making enemies on his way. But if he
Greed - The Root of all Evil 37