Satyakaama Jaabaali

सत्यकाम जाबालि
(Satyakaama Jaabaali)

Jaabaalaa was a lonely woman living with her little son, Satyakaama. At the young age of seven, he wanted to attend a gurukula for study of scriptures. His mother told him that he can call himself Satyakaama Jaabaali. He wanted to know his father's name. She explained: I am not sure. I was working as a cook in many brahmin households and you were born then. Your father was a brahmin for sure.

The Guru at the ashram asked him about his name, caste and father's name. He repeated what his mother had told him. The Guru said - Evidently you are a brahmin's son since you have the courage to utter an unpleasant truth. You may join us. Before you begin study of the scriptures, you first take these few cattle for grazing and return when their number reaches a hundred.

Satyakaama left with the cattle all by himself to the forest and hills. He studied the lives of cattle and other animals around. He obsevred the birds, plants and trees all the years. When the cattle multiplied to 100, he drove them back to the aashram. The Guru gave him a warm reception and told him - Dear Satyakaama, the glow on your face tells me you have gained knowledge of the world. Nothing more need be taught to you. God bless you.

Book knowledge has its value, but keen observation invokes better knowledge. God becomes your Guru.