The Social Organisation in North-East India in Buddha's Time c14.10

c14.10

"In old times, when Brahmadatta reigned in Benares, his son "Prince Juṇha" studied in Takkasilâ. One night, as in darkness he quitted the house of the teacher to whom he was assigned, and went hurriedly to his residence, he met on the way a Brâhmaṇa, who was also likewise going home after finishing his begging tour, and as he did not notice him, he pushed him with his arms, so that the alms pot of the Brâhmaṇa broke in two. The Brâhmaṇa threw himself down on the ground, weeping loudly. Filled with pity, the prince returned, took him by the hand and raised him; the latter, however, cried: “You have broken my alms pot in two, my dear, give me my food.” The prince replied, “Brâhmaṇa, I cannot give you money just now, but I am the son of the King of Kâsi and am called Juṇha; when I ascend the throne, then come and ask the money from me.” The prince completed his studies, took leave of his teacher and returned to Benares, where he showed his father what he had learned. The father rejoiced that he saw his son before his death, wished to see him also as king and made over the government to him which he as “King Juṇha” conducted justly. The Brâhmaṇa heard of this and reflected: “Now I will fetch the money for my food:” he went to Benares and as he saw the king on a festive occasion in the adorned city, placed himself on an elevated seat, crying, “Victory to the king.” The king passed by, without noticing him. As the Brâhmaṇa knew that he remained unnoticed, he raised his voice and shouted: