Virtue and its Rewards

Once upon a time, in a certain city lived a merchant named Eknath. He possessed colossal wealth, yet he despised charity. In public, he feigned generosity, pretending to be a epitome of virtue. However, in reality, he often dismissed those who approached him for alms.

A Hermit’s Request

One day as Eknath was engrossed in conversation with a group of distinguished men, a hermit approached him, seeking alms. With a loud command to his servant, Eknath demanded the hermit be fed. The servant, familiar with Eknath’s pretence, served the hermit a meager dollop of rice. Irked by this, the hermit confronted Eknath, who retorted and had him dismissed from his house.

The Servant’s Kindness

On his way out, the humble hermit was approached by Eknath’s chef who, unlike his master, was a pious man. He offered the hermit his share of food. Appreciative of this kindness, the hermit bestowed his blessings upon the servant. He guided him towards a ruined temple nestled amidst a dark forest, instructing him to recite the Lakshmi prayer there for immense prosperity.

Eknath’s Delusion

Meanwhile, Eknath had realized that a jar full of gold coins he had, was now empty. Assuming, incorrectly, that it was the hermit’s magic at play, he attempted to coax the hermit into returning, promising cordial hospitality. The understanding hermit directed him towards the same hidden Temple, suggesting that the Lakshmi prayer would restore Eknath’s lost fortune.

Tale of Two Journeys

Next day, Eknath and his servant set out for different quests. Eknath, however, showed no transformation in his demeanor. During his journey, he encountered individuals in distress but chose indifference over assistance. Despite the all-night prayer in the temple, he found no gold coins, misfortune seemed to have followed him.

Meanwhile, the servant, maintaining his benevolent nature, offered assistance to the needy he met on his way. Seated in the same temple, he recited the prayer with devout sincerity. Lo and behold, he found a bag full of gold coins when he woke up the next day. He returned to his home, enriched not just by the newfound treasure, but also by the goodness he had spread around him.

A Tale of Two Fates

The tale ends with Eknath still seething with discontent, while his former servant, having risen to prosperity through his kindness, living a contented life. Thus, this story serves as a vivid illustration of how one’s virtue, or its absence, can shape their destiny.