Bitterness is like swallowing poison and waiting for the other person to die.” Face to face Dighavu and Brahmadatta pleaded for their lives.

Fear eased its hold on Brahamadatta. “Grant me my life,” he said to Dighavu,”and I will grant you yours.”

Dighavu released his grip and set down his sword. The two men clasped hands and swore an oath never to harm one another.

“Let us go back to the palace,” said Brahmadatta.

“As you wish, Your Majesty,” replied Dighavu.

When they arrived back at the palace, Brahmadatta called together his counselors. With Dighavu at his side, he addressed them and asked, “If you saw Dighavu, son of my enemy Dighiti, what would you do?”

The counselors raucously shouted their affirmations of loyalty. “Cut off his hands! Cut off his feet! Chop off his head!”

Then Brahmadatta spoke. “Listen to me,” he said, lifting his open palm toward Dighavu, “this is Prince Dighavu.” The astonished counselors immediately grabbed the hilts of their swords. “No harm must come to him,” commanded Brahmadatta.” He has granted me my life and I have granted him his.”

Next time: “The Meaning of Dighiti’s Dying Words”