The Royal Council and the Missing Petitioners
One bright morning, Lord Rama held a royal council with wise sages and ministers to discuss state affairs. Rama asked Lakshmana to call forward those who had business or petitions. But no one came. When Lakshmana investigated, he found no petitioners.
The Dog’s Appearance and Complaint
Upon another check, Lakshmana encountered a dog at the palace gate. The dog was barking persistently and refused to move. When Lakshmana kindly asked, the dog spoke—expressing its fearlessness and trust in Rama’s justice—and explained it had an urgent grievance.
The Dog’s Explanation
The dog told Rama that while gods like Agni, Indra, Surya, and Vayu were honored in temples and royal houses, lowly beings like dogs had no place. The dog praised Rama’s virtues—his commitment to dharma, justice, and protection of his subjects.
Then, the dog requested Rama’s protection and justice for an offense committed against it.
The Offense by a Brahmana
The dog revealed that a Brahmana named Sarvarthasiddha, overcome by anger and hunger, had struck the dog unjustly. The Brahmana admitted his fault before Rama and begged for punishment or forgiveness.
The Council’s Judgment
The sages and ministers advised Rama that Brahmanas should not be punished with death for such offenses. Rama then asked the dog what remedy it desired.
The Dog’s Request and Wisdom
The dog asked Rama to appoint the Brahmana as Kulapati (head) of Kalanjara Matha. Rama granted this. However, the dog then explained its own former life as Kulapati, how it was reduced to a dog due to a downfall caused by offenses against Brahmanas and gods.
The dog advised that one who takes away Brahmana’s property or disrespects them destroys their family line and incurs grave sin.
Rama’s Realization and Conclusion
Rama was amazed by the dog’s wisdom. The dog, glowing with divine luster, returned to its origin after imparting this important teaching.
🌿 Lessons from the Incident
- Justice includes protecting even the lowliest creatures.
- Respect toward Brahmanas and devotees is essential.
- Anger and harshness harm not just individuals but generations.
- True dharma sustains all living beings, including the marginalized.
- Even divine kings seek wisdom from unexpected sources.
