(A story narrated by Narada from Mahabharata, Shanti Parva, chapters 162-167)
Previously, Gautama fled from the robbers’ town and joined a caravan of merchants going towards the sea. A wild elephant destroyed the caravan on its way killing everyone except Gautama.
Gautama then fled north searching for a way to the sea. Meanwhile, he discovered an enchanted forest with beautiful tall trees. Fragrant flowers ornated the trees. Sweet sounds of various birds including bharunda, the ones with human heads, filled his ears. Then, Gautama noticed a golden sandy mound with a lofty banyan tree. He approached the tree and noticed pleasant water feeding its roots. A broad canopy with divine flowers gave a heavenly appearance. Gautama decided to rest under the tree for that night. The pleasant wind and the fragrant flowers soothed Gautama as he slept under the tree.
Soon, the sun set, and a divine night heron named Naadijangha returned to the tree from Brahma‘s abode. His radiant appearance woke Gautama up. Gautama got up hungry with a desire to hunt. But, the divine heron spoke politely to his guest. The heron introduced himself as a son of sage Kashyapa and Daksha‘s daughter. Further, he said, “I am known as Rajadharma in this forest.”
The heron then extended his hospitality. He spread a flowery mat, brought the best variety of fish from Ganga, and lit a fire. As Gautama relished the fish, Rajadharma made a breeze by fanning his wings. Meanwhile, the divine heron asked his guest who he was. Gautama introduced himself as a learned man and refrained from speaking any further.
Rajadharma prepared a soft bed for his guest by piling together soft leaves and fragrant flower petals.
When Gautama was about to lie on the bed, Rajadharma asked him the purpose of his travel. Gautama sadly spoke, “I am a poor man. I was traveling in search of fortune from overseas business.” The divine heron said, ” Don’t you worry. You will return back home wealthy. A good friend is one of the four types of riches. And, I am your good friend. I shall try everything possible to make you wealthy.”
Continue reading the next part.
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