A Lesson from the Stars
The Ambitious King
King Vajrapal of Surgarh was an ambitious ruler who yearned to become an emperor. He led his army into neighboring kingdoms and successfully conquered several of them.
A Never-Ending Desire
However, his thirst for conquest remained unquenched. After a year, he began to prepare for another expedition. His ministers and generals praised his bravery, supporting his relentless ambition.
The Voice of Wisdom
The only one who did not share in the king’s greed for others’ territories was his own daughter, Princess Purnarekha.
A Meeting in the Garden
Before embarking on his expedition, the king visited the princess in the garden one evening. As he approached, he noticed she was gazing intently at the sky.
An Eye on the Stars
“What are you gazing at, my daughter?” asked the king.
“The stars!” replied the princess.
“Why?” inquired the king.
“Well, they are mighty heavenly bodies, and there is limitless space for them to move about. Yet each one remains fixed to its own spot or path, never violating the law. But it is so different with men!” the princess explained with a sigh.
A Change of Heart
The king recognized the wisdom in his daughter’s words. Meditating on her insights, he decided to abandon his plan of invading other lands.