The Story of Sunanda Gandharva
The Washerman and His Donkey
One washerman had a donkey that served him faithfully for many years. When the donkey, named Sunanda Gandharva, became old and died, the washerman, in his grief, shaved his head and took a dip in the holy water to perform the traditional rites for the deceased.
The Chain of Events
The washerman, who regularly washed the king’s clothes, went to the palace with his head shaved. The king’s priest saw him and asked, “Why have you shaved your head?”
The washerman replied, “Sunanda Gandharva died today—it’s a very auspicious day.”
Hearing this, the priest thought it was an important occasion and decided to shave his head as well.
The chief minister saw the priest with a shaved head and inquired why. The priest explained, “Sunanda Gandharva died today—it’s a very auspicious day.” The chief minister, believing the priest, also shaved his head.
When the queen saw the king with a shaved head, she asked, “Why have you shaved your head?”
The king replied, “Don’t you know? Sunanda Gandharva died today—it’s a very auspicious day.”
The Queen’s Inquiry
The queen, being more inquisitive and intelligent, asked, “Who is he? Who told you this? What is the source?”
The king answered, “The chief minister told me.”
The queen called the chief minister, “Who is Sunanda Gandharva?”
The chief minister replied, “I heard it from the priest and told the king.”
The queen then called the priest and asked, “Who is Sunanda Gandharva? Where did you hear this?”
The priest replied, “The washerman said so.”
The queen, surprised, said, “The washerman who cleanses the dirty clothes? A low-caste person of low consciousness? And you accepted it as a very auspicious day? Call the washerman.”
The Truth Revealed
When the washerman was brought before the queen, she asked, “Who is Sunanda Gandharva?”
The washerman, still grieving, replied, “Oh, I had a donkey. He died today.”
The queen exclaimed, “So the washerman’s donkey died today, and all of you shaved your heads thinking it was an auspicious day!”
Reflection on the Story
The Source of Information:
- The story illustrates how information from an unreliable source can lead to widespread misunderstanding. It underscores the importance of verifying the authenticity of the information before acting on it.
Authority in Spiritual Matters:
- In the spiritual realm, it is crucial to hear from bona fide authorities—acaryas, mahajanas, and sadhus—who are recognized for their wisdom and authenticity. Following their guidance ensures that one is on the correct path.
Critical Thinking:
- The queen’s inquiry and critical thinking reveal the importance of questioning and understanding the source of information. Blind acceptance without verification can lead to misguided actions.
Tradition and Practices:
- The story highlights how traditional practices and rituals can be misinterpreted or misapplied if not guided by proper understanding and authentic teachings.
Lessons to Be Learned
- Verify Information:
- Always verify the source and authenticity of information, especially in matters of importance.
- Seek Bona Fide Guidance:
- In spiritual and other significant matters, seek guidance from recognized and bona fide authorities to ensure the correctness of one’s actions and beliefs.
- Critical Inquiry:
- Practice critical thinking and inquiry to understand the basis and source of information before accepting and acting on it.
- Authentic Spiritual Practice:
- Follow the path laid out by authentic spiritual teachers and traditions to ensure genuine progress and avoid misunderstandings.
Conclusion
The story of Sunanda Gandharva teaches us the importance of verifying the source of information and seeking guidance from authentic authorities. It emphasizes critical thinking and the need for authentic spiritual practice guided by bona fide teachers. By following these principles, we can avoid misunderstandings and make genuine progress in our spiritual and worldly endeavors.
Sri Srimad Gour Govinda Swami Maharaja…
— March 5, 1995 Bhubaneswar, India.
