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| | | Book Name: The Dhammapada - The Way of the Buddha, Vol 6 | Previous Next | |
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a well-known personality -- the whole land worshipped him -- naturally he went to see him and pay his homage. But deep down he was a little suspicious, because he had known this man from his very childhood; he could not believe that he had really become "lord of peace." He was a devil incarnate! Was it possible -- such a change and so suddenly? He was suspicious, but changes happen in the world. He went.
He had hoped that the great man would at least recognize him; they were old childhood friends -- for forty years they had known each other. But the great man had become so great now, how could he recognize his friend? He recognized -- the friend immediately knew that he had recognized him -- but he wouldn't look at him. In fact, he avoided him; that very avoiding was an indication that he had recognized him.
The friend thought that nothing had changed -- the anger had now become his ego.
When all the other people were gone the friend remained there; he came close. He asked, "Sir, can I ask your name?"
Shantinath, Lord of Peace, was a little disturbed. What stupidity! All the newspapers printed his pictures and his name. On All-India Radio his name was broadcasted, he was shown on television. Everybody knew about him, he was a household name, and this fool was asking his name! But he didn't show anything on the surface. He simply said, "My name is Shantinath."
Some metaphysical dialogue followed, and the man again asked, "Sir, I have forgotten your name. What is your name?"
Now fire came to the eyes of the mahatma! But still he tried to control, though his face was getting red. He said, "I have told you. You seem to be an idiot! Can't you understand a simple name? My name is Shantinath!"
Again some little spiritual discussion followed, and the man said, "Sir, I have forgotten your name."
Shantinath took his staff in his hand and he said, "This is the last time -- enough is enough! If you ask me the fourth time I will break your skull! My name is Shantinath -- Lord of Peace."
And the friend said, "Now I have understood. You certainly are Lord of Peace -- your red eyes, your face, your fire and the staff
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