Challenge II: Yaksha Prashnà
With renewed confidence, Arjun entered the enchanted forest, marvelling at the vibrant colours and ethereal beauty that surrounded him. The forest seemed to pulse with an otherworldly energy, and Arjun could feel the presence of the divine in every leaf and branch.
As he ventured deeper into the woods, Arjun encountered a wise, ancient figure sitting beneath a large banyan tree. The figure radiated an aura of calm and knowledge, and Arjun instinctively knew that this must be the Yaksha disguised as a sage, ready to test his understanding of Krishna’s teachings.
Arjun approached the Yaksha with reverence, bowing his head in greeting. The Yaksha smiled, his eyes twinkling with wisdom. “Welcome, young Arjun,” he said, his voice deep and melodious. “I sense that you are on a noble quest, seeking to prove your devotion and knowledge. Are you prepared to answer my questions?”
Arjun nodded, his heart filled with determination. “Yes, wise Yaksha. I am ready to face your test and demonstrate my understanding of Lord Krishna’s teachings.”
The Yaksha’s smile widened, and he began his first question. “In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna imparted sacred knowledge to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Tell me, young seeker, what did Krishna teach Arjuna about the nature of the soul?”
Arjun closed his eyes for a moment, recalling the profound words of the Bhagavad Gita. He then spoke with clarity and conviction, “Lord Krishna taught that the soul is eternal, indestructible, and cannot be killed or destroyed. The soul is the true essence of our being, untouched by the changes of the physical world.”
The Yaksha nodded, pleased with Arjun’s answer. “Very good, Arjun. Your understanding of this fundamental truth is clear. Now, let us move on to the next question. In the sacred texts, the relationship between Lord Krishna and Radha is celebrated as the epitome of divine love. What does their relationship symbolise?”
Arjun’s heart swelled with devotion as he contemplated the love between Krishna and Radha. “The relationship between Krishna and Radha symbolises the soul’s eternal devotion and yearning for God. Radha’s unwavering love for Krishna represents the highest form of bhakti, the path of devotion that leads to union with the divine.”
The Yaksha’s eyes shone with appreciation. “Beautifully expressed, Arjun. Your comprehension of this sacred bond is truly commendable. Now, for the final question. According to Lord Krishna’s teachings, what is the best way for a devotee to attain liberation, or moksha?”
Arjun took a deep breath, recalling the essence of Krishna’s message. “Lord Krishna taught that the best way to attain moksha is through devotion and surrender to God, performing one’s duties without attachment to the results. By dedicating our actions to the divine and relinquishing our ego, we can break free from the cycle of birth and death and achieve ultimate liberation.”
The Yaksha rose from his seated position, his form emanating an ethereal glow. “Arjun, your answers have revealed the depth of your understanding and the purity of your devotion. You have passed this test with flying colours. Your knowledge of Krishna’s teachings will serve you well in your quest. Go forth with my blessings, and may your journey be filled with success and enlightenment,” Yaksha said, revealing the path to Mayasura’s cave.
Arjun bowed to the Yaksha with deep gratitude, thanking him for his guidance and wisdom. As he continued his journey through the enchanted forest, Arjun’s heart was filled with a newfound sense of purpose and clarity, preparing him for the challenges ahead.
