How the king fed his guest and other stories

The spell

Once, a young brahmin named Magha lived near Beneras. He was the kindest and the most generous person in his village. He always thought of others' welfare. Impressed with Magha's quality and deeds, all the young men gave up their old ways and joined him. Together, they built the villages roads, made canals, dug wells, and did other acts on public charity. The village headman soon lost his popularity and grew jealous of Magha. So he bought of ways to get rid of Magha. One day, he informed the king,"My Lord, people in our village are being troubled by some thugs!" The king reacted swiftly, and imprisoned Magha and his supporters. He ordered that they be lined up so that the elephants would easily trample them to death. The first came, saw them and ran away. So did the other elephants! The king said, "How is this possible? They have been chanted a spell to keep the elephants away. Free them!" Magha said "We only know one spell, always practice kindness. Dig wells, make roads and canals and help others in whatever way possible!" The king understood that the village headman was lying and imprisoned him. The headman's belongings and the elephants were given to Magha.

Moral: Do not judge in haste