The Loss of Friends

The Loss of Friends

  

Once upon a time, Amarasakti ruled the

city-state of Mahilaropyam in the south of

India. He had three witless sons who became

a matter of endless worry for him.

Realizing

that his sons had no interest in learning, the

king summoned his ministers and said:

  

“You know I am not happy with my sons.

According to men of learning an unborn son

and a stillborn son are better than a son who

is a dimwit.

  

What good is a barren cow? A son

who is stupid will bring dishonour to his

father. How can I make them fit to be my

successors? I turn to you for advice.”

One of the ministers suggested the name of

Vishnu Sharman, a great scholar enjoying the

respect of hundreds of his disciples.

“He is the

most competent person to tutor your children.

Entrust them to his care and very soon you

will see the change.”

The king summoned Vishnu Sharman and

pleaded with him “Oh, venerable scholar, take

pity on me and please train my sons into great

scholars and I will make you the lord of

hundred villages.”

Vishnu Sharman said “Oh, king, listen to my

pledge. Hundred villages do not tempt me to

vend learning.

Count six months from today. If

I do not make your children great scholars,

you can ask me to change my name.”