Temptation!


As Pāndavās reached Virāta’s city outskirts, Yudhisthira asked Arjun: Where should we hide our weapons? If we keep them with us, people will become alarmed. Besides, the famous Gāndiva bow would be recognized & our identities would be disclosed


Arjun said: I saw large sami tree nearby in a secluded forest bordering a dreary cemetery. I think if we hide weapons in that tree, they’ll remain undiscovered. Pāndavās went to the tree & after unstringing their bows, placed them with their swords and other weapons. Nakula climbed tree & hid weapons by tying them to some branches clustered together. He then took a corpse from cemetery & hung it in the tree so that the unbearable stench would keep people away


Pāndavās chose 5 names of Gandharvās they could use to call upon one another during an emergency


Yudhisthira began meditating on Yogamāya (Goddess Durgā), who had appeared as Sri Krsna’s younger sister & then ascended into sky when wicked Kamsa tried to dash her upon stone floor of his dungeon. Aspiring to invoke her mercy, he praised her & prayed for protection. Pleased by worship, the goddess appeared-her celestial beauty dazzling to behold. As astonished Pāndavās stood with folded hands, she said: O King! Be assured that prosperity will soon be yours by my grace. Give up all fear, for I guarantee that while residing in Matsya kingdom you’ll not be recognized


Pāndavās then proceeded to the city. Yudhisthira dressed like a Brāhmanā, carried his golden dice inlaid with emeralds in a cloth slung over his shoulder, entered the royal court & came before King Virāta. When King saw handsome appearance & royal features of the new arrival, he couldn't believe him to be a Brāhmanā. Virāta sent his ministers to find out visitor’s identity


Upon being questioned Yudhisthira said: I’m a poor Brāhmanā who has lost everything due to great misfortune. I’ve come to Matsya kingdom with hopes of engaging in the service of King. Virāta happily accepted the so-called Brāhmāna. When asked the details he said: My name is Kanka & I’m noted for my skill at dice. Formerly I was engaged in service of King Yudhisthira, but now, bereft of that service, I’ve come to you


Virāta exclaimed: O Kanka! You look like a demigod. I think it would be more fitting for you to rule this kingdom while I remain your subordinate. Yudhisthira said: I’ve no ambition to become big leader & simply want to display my wisdom & play dice


It happens to most of us that when we resolve to discipline ourselves for some worthwhile purpose, sooner or later we feel tempted with something that breaks our resolve


We need to understand what temptations can do & what they can’t. They can coax us, whisper from inside us & prey upon our weakness, once we listen. But it can’t coerce us & force us to do what we don’t want


If we are listening to our voice & not temptation’s voice, we can very well be in control. Spiritual knowledge & practices helps us resist the temptation


Thoughts? #gameoflife

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