Verdict of Yasaskara

The Rise of Yasaskara

Long ago, the lovely valley of Kashmir was ruled by a tyrant. His oppressive rule disgusted the people to such an extent that they eventually revolted and ousted him from the throne. A poor Brahmin named Yasaskara was elected to rule in his place.

A Just Ruler

Yasaskara was a wise ruler, and his policies benefited the people enormously. To address the grievances of his subjects, he appointed several officers to handle their complaints. One day, he learned that a man was fasting due to some grievances, prompting the king to summon him and hear his woes.

The Complaint

The man recounted, “Sire, once I was a very rich man, but I fell into debt and was unable to pay back my creditors. I sold my house but left the well for my wife. When I returned to the town to earn a living, I found my wife in tatters and starving. The new owner had barred her from using the well. I appealed to the courts, but the decision went against me. As God is my witness, I have justice on my side. Therefore, I am undergoing a fast unto death.”

The King’s Investigation

Yasaskara summoned the new owner, who presented the king with the deed of sale, which indicated that the well was part of the house. The king initially seemed satisfied that the deed was in order. However, he ordered his guards to bring all the bank accounts belonging to the new owner.

The Discovery

When the books were brought to the court, the king examined them in detail. He discovered an entry indicating that a thousand gold pieces had been paid to the clerk for arranging the purchase of the house. The king summoned the clerk and asked sternly, “Fellow, tell me the truth. Did you receive a thousand gold pieces for assisting in the purchase of this property?”

The Verdict

The poor clerk stammered, “Yes, Sire. The new owner agreed to pay me the money if I included the well in the deed. I did what he asked me to do.” Hearing this, the king delivered his verdict. He ordered the confiscation of the house and its return to the original owner. The deceitful new owner was sentenced to exile, and the clerk received a long prison term. The entire court praised the king, who was revered for his wisdom and justice.