King Vikramaditya once hired a man named Vira-Vara, who demanded an exorbitant daily wage. Vikram noticed that Vira-Vara spent most of his earnings on charity and the temple, keeping very little for himself. One dark, rainy night, a woman’s wailing was heard near the palace. Vira-Vara was sent to investigate. He found the Goddess of Fortune weeping, who told him that the King’s life was soon to end unless a pure sacrifice was made—Vira-Vara’s own son. Vira-Vara informed his family, and his son bravely consented, stating that serving the King was their highest duty. After the sacrifice, Vira-Vara’s wife and daughter, unable to bear the grief, ended their lives, and Vira-Vara followed suit. King Vikram, who had secretly followed them, was so moved by their devotion that he prepared to sacrifice himself to the Goddess. Impressed by the King’s selflessness, the Goddess appeared, restored the family to life, and granted the King a long reign.
While a servant’s loyalty is a duty, a ruler’s willingness to sacrifice himself for his subjects is the highest form of nobility.
Questions about this story
What is the moral of The Loyal Servant?
The story teaches that while a servant’s loyalty is commendable, a ruler’s empathy and readiness to die for their people is the highest virtue. It highlights the importance of selfless duty and the power of divine mercy.
Why did Vira-Vara sacrifice his son?
He believed that his duty to the King was paramount and that saving the ruler would ensure the prosperity of the entire kingdom. His son also bravely accepted the sacrifice as his own duty to the crown.
Who was the woman crying in the story?
The woman was the Goddess of Fortune (or the Kingdom's destiny), who was weeping because the virtuous King Vikramaditya’s life was coming to an end. Her grief signaled the impending doom of the realm without its leader.
How did King Vikram save Vira-Vara's family?
After witnessing the family's ultimate sacrifice, Vikram was prepared to offer his own life to the Goddess to bring them back. Impressed by his selflessness, the Goddess granted his wish and restored the family.
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Good night.
