AN IDOL IS GOD HIMSELF- STORY
Swami Vivekanandha once was staying in “Alwar” in Rajasthan in the palace of the king.
That king had rational thoughts about God and religion.
When the king was discussing with the swamiji, he accused the idol worship. He said that the people are worshiping the stones as Gods.
Swamiji explained in many ways.
He clearly explained: “We don’t worship the idol, but the God in the form of idol”
But that king did not hear it. He continue to speak rational views about idol worship.
The day came for Swamiji to leave the palace.
On that day, Swamiji and the king were sitting in the court hall of the palace.
Swamiji called the minister and said:
“Please take the Picture of the king that is hanging on the wall”
The minister brought it.
Swamiji said:
“Minister, now, spit on this Picture”
The king and minister were stunned to hear Swamiji saying so.
The minister controlled his anger and asked:
“Swamiji, what are you saying? He is our king. How can we spit on him?”
Swamiji asked:
“Is it king? Is itn’t just a paper?”
Minister said: “No. This is the image of our king”
Swamiji said:
“Its alright. I didn’t tell you to spit on the king. I just told to spit on the image only.”
The minister said:
“No. I see my king in this image. The insult done to this image is equal to the insult to the king”
Now, the Swamiji told the king:
“Oh my dear King! The minister who gets salary from you see you in this image. Then, is it an offense or myth to see God in the form of idol? Should you accuse that practice?”
The king humbly accepted the views of Swami Vivekananandha.
MORAL:
Idols are the archa avatars of the Lord Himself. There is no difference between the Lord and His idol form.
(Happiness is life – Story! READ HERE!)