Rantideva's Sacrifice

King Rantideva was renowned for his extreme generosity. He believed that everything he owned belonged to God, and he gave away his wealth so freely that he and his family were reduced to dire poverty.

Once, Rantideva and his family had to fast for forty-eight days without even a drop of water. Finally, on the forty-ninth morning, they received a modest meal of rice, milk, and water. Just as they sat down to eat, a Brahmin guest arrived. Seeing God in the guest, Rantideva happily gave him a portion of the food.

Next, a Shudra (laborer) arrived, asking for food. Rantideva fed him as well. Then, a man surrounded by dogs appeared, begging for scraps. Rantideva gave away the remaining food to the man and his dogs, leaving nothing for himself or his starving family.

Only some water remained—just enough to quench one person's thirst. As Rantideva raised the cup to his parched lips, a tired, untouchable outcaste approached, crying, "O King, I am dying of thirst. Please give me water!"

Rantideva did not hesitate. He prayed: "I do not desire the highest heaven, nor liberation. I only ask to reside within all beings and endure their suffering, so they may be free from pain." He joyfully gave the water to the outcaste.

Suddenly, the gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva appeared before him. The guests had been the gods in disguise, testing his resolve. Pleased with his absolute selflessness, they offered him any boon, but Rantideva only asked for eternal devotion to the Lord.