This story gives wonderful insights on the Mahabharata's and Sri-Mad Bhagavata's contribution to Human Psychology and Spirituality.
Many years ago, there lived a Brahmin who had yearned for a child for a long time. At last, a son was born to him, but tragically, the child fell ill and died within a few days. Stricken with grief, the parents wept profusely. The child, whom they had anticipated would grow and cast light upon their lives, had departed. The whole family convened in the cemetery to grieve the loss, bearing the boy's lifeless form. The Brahmin was heartbroken, perpetually reminiscing about the brief happiness and playfulness the boy had provided, his heart brimming with profound sadness.
As the family mourned, an eagle residing in the graveyard noticed the Brahmin's sorrow and came forth. The eagle imparted wisdom, saying, "What purpose does it serve to sit and weep over a lifeless body? Do you believe your tears can restore life? Mourning over what is now as inanimate as timber is pointless. The joys, sorrows, fortunes, and misfortunes associated with this body have ceased. Strengthen your mind and heart. Rather than succumbing to grief, pursue the path of penance to transcend this sadness. Release your attachments, for nothing in this world lasts forever. The dead will not awaken with your crying; you will merely immerse yourself in ceaseless agony."
The eagle went on, "Remaining here will only prolong your tears as you recall the child's playful times. Do not drench the lifeless form with your sorrow. This place has seen many mourners—those grieving for mothers, spouses, and offspring. All must depart from this realm in time; permanence is not ours to have. How long will you linger in lament? What purpose does it serve to sit before a vessel that no longer stirs or beholds? Nightfall approaches with the setting sun."
The eagle, unable to see in the dark, harbored its own agenda. It believed that persuading the mourning family to leave before dusk would allow it to dine on the remains. The family, however, failed to perceive the eagle's ulterior motive. Convinced by its apparently sagacious advice, they concluded it was sensible to depart from the cemetery. In doing so, they unwittingly afforded the eagle the chance it had sought.
As they walked away from the graveyard, the sorrowful parents met a fox that addressed them with both empathy and censure. "How heartless you are! To leave this sweet child before sunset. You seem to lack compassion for him. Were you not misled by the eagle's cunning words? Who knows, perhaps by God's grace, the boy may yet live."
The fox persisted, "You must not forsake this child, born of your flesh, without compassion. It is unjust to desert the body of your son. Animals and birds grieve for their offspring with profound affection. How can you, as his parents, depart without a second glance? Life holds the utmost value to all creatures, and although this child has relinquished his, you ought to provide him with your solace. Remain here and lament for him until tranquility settles in your hearts."
The words of the fox, heavy with sympathy and guilt, made the parents doubt their choice. Caught between the eagle's rational counsel and the fox's emotional plea, they found themselves plunged into greater sorrow and confusion.
The fox, like the eagle, had its own selfish motives. If the parents left, the eagle would feast on the child’s body, leaving the fox with nothing. But if night fell, the fox would have its chance to devour the body undisturbed. Cleverly, it spoke these emotional words to keep the family there until it was dark. The Brahmin, torn between the eagle’s rational advice and the fox’s compassionate pleas, grew increasingly confused. Unsure of what to do, he was overwhelmed by the conflicting advice.
Overwhelmed by his plight, the Brahmin sought divine intervention, praying earnestly for guidance and solace. Touched by his heartfelt supplication, Lord Vishnu manifested before him. The Brahmin implored for his son's life to be revived, and through the Lord benevolence, the child was resurrected, endowed with the boon of a long-life spanning centuries.
The fox, whose manipulative words had been spoken for selfish reasons, was left utterly disappointed, realizing that, against all odds, its deception had led to the very outcome it had hoped to avoid. The family rejoiced, and the Lord’s kindness prevailed, saving the grieving parents from further sorrow.
Insights on Human Psychology and Spirituality:
Bhagavan Vyasa teaches a valuable lesson from this story: People may try to manipulate us with their cunning intentions, disguising their selfish motives as wisdom or compassion. It is important to remain discerning, especially in times of grief or confusion, and to seek true guidance rather than be swayed by the deceptive words of those with hidden agendas. The Brahmin was highly devout and had completed many incarnations of spiritual practice, which is why Lord Vishnu manifested before him to grant his wish.
The Sri Mad-Bhagavata delineates the fundamental traits of humanity, stating: 'The root of all suffering is sins. The root of all sins is nature of humans. By nature, humans are inherently selfish, delusory, preoccupied with their own concerns above all else. While some battle for survival, others engage in conflicts fueled by ego, masquerading as prestige. Fundamentally, humans are frail, deceitful, and cunning. They naturally shun pain and seek pleasure, ever watchful for chances to exploit situations to their advantage.'
The fable of the eagle and the fox vividly demonstrates this concept. The eagle, attempting to appear wise, advised that death is simply a part of life and suggested the Brahmin leave the burial site. However, its motives were ultimately selfish. In the Kali-Yuga, the prevalence of such deceitful figures is notable. Spiritual seekers ought to be cautious of these individuals.
During times of crisis, many believe that the ultimate guidance comes from the divine. Enhancing psychic abilities, such as telepathy, is thought to facilitate this divine connection. This process also includes developing one's spiritual quotient, which encompasses spiritual consciousness and conscientiousness. Intuition plays a crucial role in this development and can be honed through regular meditation. It is through meditation that one may look inward and tap into the divinity that lies within. This provides clarity about life and can protect us from numerous disasters.
धर्मो रक्षति रक्षितः
श्रीमध्वेशकृष्णार्पणमस्तु
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Reference: Bhoori Shanti Parva of Mahabharata, Chapter 149.
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