King Dasarath's Longing (3)

With a compelling voice that boomed around the hall, Dasarath addressed Vasishtha. "I have called this assembly so late in the night to settle a great worry of mine. As you know, this wide earth has for a long time been held under the sway of victorious kings in my line. Oh jewel among sages, is that glorious history about to end? What can I do to ensure that our great lineage will continue?"

Having ruled as the undisputed emperor of the earth for thousands of years, Dasarath's retirement was now approaching; but he had no one to succeed him.

Somehow, none of his wives had given birth to a son. Dasarath had called for a full assembly in the middle of the night to propose and idea he was considering. He needed the approval of the sages and the consent of his people. The king looked anxiously at Vasishtha, as he replied to the king. "Oh great emperor, I have no doubt that you will soon be blessed with a capable son who is worthy of succeeding you. Not long ago, I was told by the immortal sage who roams the universe, that a divine arrangement is being worked by the gods for your everlasting benefit."

Vasishtha lived in a hermitage outside the city. He was frequently visited by by wandering sages and mystics. A few days previously he was visited by such a sage. He told Vasishtha that soon four powerful sons would be born in the emperor's palace. These sons would be divine incarnations, appearing to fulfil the purpose of the gods. Vasishtha continued, "These intellectuals have all been praying to the lord for your sake, Oh monarch. We have seen auspicious signs in the heavens. It is clear that some great plan of the Supreme will be achieved through you."

Incomparable joy infested the king's heart as he heard the priest's words. Dasarath had religiously pursued his duties as emperor. He kept everyone on the path of piety and truth. Seeing all the people as his children, he was concerned about their happiness after his retirement. He spoke again. "I have been considering the performance of a horse sacrifice for the gods and Vishnu. Oh noble sages, will this be successful? Can I satisfy the Lord in this way and thereby attain my desired end?"

Dasarath knew that nothing could be achieved unless Vishnu, the Supreme Lord, was pleased. Although they control the universe, the other gods were Vishnu's agents. Dasarath now considered this to be his only means of deliverance. He looked hopefully at Vasishtha, who had been speaking with other sages at his side. As Vasishtha turned towards the king, he said, "We are in agreement, Oh tiger among men. let the sacrifice proceed! We shall immediately prepare a ground on the banks of the river Sarayu. You shall certainly get a son by this method."