Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v1.c14.453

v1.c14.453

Gāmaṇi-Caṇḍa Jātaka (No. 257).—The Bodhisatta was once born as Adāsamukha, son of Janasandha, king of Benares. Adāsamukha became king at the age of seven, having successfully solved the problems set him by his courtiers. Janasandha had a servant named Gāmaṇi-Caṇḍa who, being old, retired when Adāsamukha came to the throne. But various mishaps befell Gāmaṇi-Caṇḍa, and he was charged on various counts by different people. As he was being brought to the king to receive punishment, he was asked by several persons to convey messages to the king, and to find out from him solutions for their troubles. The king listened to the charges brought against Gāmaṇi and to his explanation of them. Convinced of Gāmaṇi's innocence, he passed sentences which ultimately brought gain to Gāmaṇi. The king then proceeded to solve the problems contained in the messages brought by Gāmaṇi. He gave to Gāmaṇi the village in which he lived, free from all taxes, and there Gāmaṇi lived happily to the end of his days.