Gajendra, the Elephant is Caught by an Alligator

 

Long ago, there stood a beautiful mountain called Trikuta. It had shining peaks of gold, silver, and steel. Celestial beings often visited this lovely place filled with trees, flowers, lakes, and precious stones.

In that forest lived Gajendra, the mighty king of elephants. One day, he was roaming proudly with his herd of elephants. As they walked, they broke bamboo trees and frightened lions, tigers, and snakes. Soon, they smelled the sweet fragrance of lotuses from a nearby lake and happily rushed towards it.

The elephants drank cool water, bathed, and played joyfully in the lake. Gajendra was enjoying himself and never imagined danger nearby.

Suddenly, a powerful alligator hiding in the water caught Gajendra’s leg tightly! Gajendra fought bravely to free himself. The other elephants tried to help, but they could not rescue him.

The struggle continued for a very long time. Slowly, Gajendra became weak and tired. Realizing that no one could save him, he finally prayed sincerely to the Almighty for help.

Moral: When all worldly strength fails, sincere prayer to God gives true protection.