Vibheeshana
Too Gets A Boon
Vibheeshana also took to rigorous penance and meditation. In summer he set up fires in
four containers on all four sides, himself sitting in the middle. He kept one more burning
fire in front of him and engaged in the 'penance of the five fires'. In the rainy season
he remained in the half standing posture of 'Veerasana', exposing his whole body to heavy
downpour, and carried on his meditation. He stood in bitingly cold water in winter and
continued pas'. He gave up all food; the air he breathed was his only sustenance.
Brahma was pleased with his austerity and came to him. He said, "My dear boy, What do
you want? Ask for any boon and I will give it."
"O Lord, I salute you again and again, a thousand times. Bless me that I may not
stray from the path of virtue in my happi- ness or in difficulties. And may I have the
ability to wield the great missile 'Brahmaastra' without anyone teaching me. Grant me
these boons," Vibheeshana entreated.
Brahma blessed him thus - "Beloved Vibheeshana, you have a righteous mind, and so you
have asked for such good boons. You have them. And on my own, I give you one more boon-
that you
will be immortal." |
