Page 32 - Faith Personified
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The Futility of Worldly Pleasures
Why don’t wise men consider these worldly benefits worthy?
It is the rational knowledge that wise men possess owing to
which worldly pleasures do not please them. They have the
right understanding that there is nothing to be delighted
about. These outward benefits rest on the slaughter of many
living creatures as well as the loss of our merits. Then are this
benefits worthy of admiration? It’s a million dollar question.
Our epics talk of the legendary King Vikramaditya, whose
valour and esteem were unmatched. Talking about an incident
before he was crowned as the King.
He was on the verge of bankruptcy and reached Rohanachal
Mountains with his friend. His friend said, “Vikram! This
place is miraculous. If you say – Alas! God, save me and beg
a little here, you will surely secure a precious gem.”
Vikram flatly rejected the offer. He exclaimed, “I will not
secure anything by begging. To me, wealth acquired through
begging is as valueless as dry grass. The concerned friend was
aware of Vikram’s dire condition but also knew he wouldn’t
beg for life’s sake. He devised a plan.
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