Necklace

The ruler of Thanjavur sent the Swami an offering of a diamond necklace. The Swami was at that time busy performing “Vysvadevam" (a kind of Homa with cooked rice.) So, the Swami gave it as ‘Naivedya’ to Yegneswara. The people at the place were astonished at this. Learning of this through hearsay the king was angry and grieved that a necklace, worth thousands of rupees, was consigned to the fire. Two or three days later, the ruler visited the Swami and said, “O Swami ! I sent to you a diamond necklace. I think you would have used it as an ornament to God. I want it now for some purpose; I wish to make another necklace of the same fashion. Please give it to me. I shall return it again.” The swami at once prayed to Yegnarayana, the Lord of Sacrifices. The God of fire appeared before him and gave him the necklace. The Swami received it and gave it to the King. The King, who was witness to the greatness of the Swami, was filled with wonder. Thinking that he had sinned against the Swami, the King prostrated himself before him and begged his pardon. The Swami was manifestation of mercy. He readily pardoned the King and blessed him.