Once upon a time, a wealthy nobleman realized that the suffering of old age spares neither rich nor poor. He renounced his wealth and status, retreating to the forest to live as a monk. Through meditation, he purified his mind, freed himself from unwholesome thoughts, and found contentment. His serene and friendly nature gradually attracted 500 followers.
Among the monks, who were often serious, one always wore a gentle smile. No matter the circumstance, a glimmer of inner happiness never left him. When asked about his constant joy, he would chuckle and reply, "If I told you, you wouldn't believe me! And if you thought I spoke a lie, it would dishonor my master." The wise master, understanding the source of this unwavering happiness, appointed him as his chief assistant.
One year, after the rainy season, the old master and his followers visited the city. The king, a conscientious ruler burdened by state affairs, rivalries, and constant worries, allowed them to stay in his pleasure garden. As summer neared and the monks prepared to return to the forest, the king, concerned for the aging master's health, urged him to stay behind. The master agreed, sending his 500 followers back under the leadership of his chief assistant.
The assistant continued his meditation in the forest, attaining even greater wisdom and peace. Missing his master, he returned to the city for a visit. Sitting at his master's feet, he seldom spoke but would periodically exclaim, "What happiness! Oh what happiness!"
When the king arrived to pay his respects, the visiting monk continued his joyful exclamations without acknowledging the king. Offended, the king complained to the old master, suggesting the monk was foolish from overeating. The master explained, "Oh king, have patience. He was once a king as mighty as you. He renounced that life to become a monk. Now, free from the burdens of protecting wealth and wielding power, guarded by wisdom and inner peace found in meditation, he experiences a joy so profound he cannot help but express it. His past happiness is nothing compared to this."
The king understood immediately. The story brought him peace. After receiving advice from both monks, he honored them and returned to his palace. Later, the happy monk paid his respects and returned to the forest. The old master lived out his days and, upon his death, was reborn in a heavenly realm.
The moral is: Detachment from wealth and power increases happiness.