Therefore, forbid this Brahmana that he may not go
to string the bow which he is even now desirous of doing from vanity,
or mere childish daring.' Others replied, 'We shall not be made
ridiculous, nor shall we incur the disrespect of anybody or the
displeasure of the sovereigns. Some remarked, 'This handsome youth is even
like the trunk of a mighty elephant, whose shoulders and arms and thighs
are so well-built, who in patience looks like the Himavat, whose gait is
even like that of the lion, and whose prowess seems to be like that of an
elephant in rut, and who is so resolute, that it is probable that he will
accomplish this feat. He has strength and resolution. If he had none, he
would never go of his own accord. Besides, there is nothing in the three
worlds that Brahmanas of all mortal men cannot accomplish. Abstaining from
all food or living upon air or eating of fruits, persevering in their vows,
and emaciated and weak, Brahmanas are ever strong in their own energy. One
should never disregard a Brahmana whether his acts be right or wrong, by
supposing him incapable of achieving any task that is great or little, or
that is fraught with bliss or woe. Rama the son of Jamadagni defeated in
battle, all the Kshatriyas. Agastya by his Brahma energy drank off the
fathomless ocean. Therefore, say ye, 'Let this youth bend the bow and
string it with ease' (and many said), 'So be it.' And the Brahmanas
continued speaking unto one another these and other words.
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