In the Kingdom of Pupphavati near Benares, good Prince Canda-Kumara served his father, King Ekaraja, as viceroy. And he became known throughout the realm for his patience and fairness in solving disputes.
Now it happened one day that Prince Canda was able to reverse a judgment that Khandahala had made in one case, and thereby restored unjustly seized property to its rightful owners. The news of this good deed spread to the people, and they began to sing the praises of Prince Canda. They called on him continually to act as their mediator.
Eventually the king conferred upon his son the office of judge. Khandahala grew more and more jealous of Prince Canda. He plotted in innumerable ways to get rid of the young prince who had replaced him in the people's affections. He planned revenge he thought would encompass the prince as well as the whole community, which had ceased to pay attention to him.
Before long, he was able to put his scheme into action. One night, King Ekaraja dreamed of a glorious bejeweled heaven populated by celestial beings. When he awoke, he was seized by an overpowering desire to enter this radiant world. More>>
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