233. The Bodhisatta And The Tavern-Keeper
Once upon a time when Brahmadatta was reigning in Benares, the Bodhisatta was the Treasurer of Benares, and had a tavern-keeper who lived under his protection. This man having stock of strong spirits, which he left his apprentice to sell. He went to the river for taking a bathe. During his absence his apprentice mixed salt with the liquor, and spoiled it. On his return the tavern-keeper came to know what had happened, he told the story to the Treasure. The Bodhisatta said,”Truly. The ignorant and foolish, with every desire to do good, only succeed in doing harm.”
In these lines the Bodhisatta taught the truth.
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