In the time when the Lord was a Bodhisattva, he was a wandering ascetic, it is said, named Mahâbodhi[162]. When still a householder, he had made a regular and thorough study of such branches of learning as are esteemed in the world, and being curious of fine arts, had also acquainted himself with them. Afterwards, having renounced the world, as he was exerting himself for the benefit of the world, he directed his mind more earnestly to the study of the law-books, and obtained the mastership in that science. Thanks to his possession of a store of merit, the loftiness of his wisdom, his knowledge of the world, and his superior skill in the art of conversing with men, it happened that to whatever country he went, his company was sought for, and his person cherished by the learned as well as by such princes as patronized the learned, by Brâhmans living in the world as well as by other ascetics. [162] This name means '(possessing) great wisdom.' 1. Virtues acquire splendour by their appearing on the ground of meritorious actions[163], but it is by the gracefulness of their practice, that they will gain the affection of men and partake of the most distinguished worship even from the side of one's enemies, obliged to do so by regard for their own reputation. [163] Our author never forgets to point out the importance of the possession of much pu_n_ya, cp. Story XIV, p. 133, and Story XV, p. 136. Now that Great-minded One, wandering about with the object of doing good to men, in villages, towns, markets, countries, kingdoms, royal residences, reached the realm of a king who, having heard of the splendour of his many virtues, was rejoiced at the report of his arrival. Having been informed of it long before, he had a dwelling-place built for him in a lovely spot in his own pleasure-gardens. At his arrival, he made him enter his kingdom in the most honourable manner, going to meet him and showing him other tokens of esteem. He attended on him and listened to his teaching, as a pupil observes his spiritual teacher. 2. To a lover of virtues, the arrival of a virtuous guest, coming confidingly to his wealth-abounding home, is a kind of feast[164]. [164] Cp. Story VI, stanza 30. And the Bodhisattva for his part favoured him with daily discourses on religious subjects, delightful to both the ears and the heart, by which he gradually prepared him to walk on the road to salvation. 3. Those who love the Law desire to give religious instruction even to such people as have not shown them their attachment, they will do so out of compassion for their neighbour. How should they not teach him who, like a pure vessel, is eager to accept their instruction and to manifest his love?