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The Value of Self-Control
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go there, you will deviate from your accumulated virtues. You will not succeed in your attempt.”
Neglecting the Guru's advice, the muni left for his destination, at last reaching the house of Kosha. Kosha perceived the hidden meaning of the monk's arrival. Now that she was a religious householder, she felt it her duty not to let the monk deviate from his path.
As the Chaaturmaas progressed, the muni lived too comfortable a life, enjoying such pleasures and luxuries as tasty meals and idleness. Furthermore, as the beauty of Kosha was ever in front of him, he gave up all religious activities, and put forth a proposal before her. The conversation went as follows: Kosha - Muni! You know that we covet money. Therefore,
tell me what you possess. Muni - How can we have money? We are but monks. Kosha - Well, we follow a rule of excessive attachment
to wealth. If we do not, how can we lead our
lives? Muni - Is there any way out of it? Kosha - (after some thought)- There is one way, but that
depends only on your succeeding in it. It might
prove to be a difficult job. Muni- What is it? I do not regard any task too difficult
for the sake of you. Kosha - Well, the king of Nepal gives away a jewel rug
worth one and a quarter lakh rupees. If you could bring it, your desire shall be fulfilled.
