Day 84

The Departure and Journey of King Viduratha

As the life-breath departed from King Viduratha's body, it ascended ethereally, akin to birds fleeing a falling tree. Observing this phenomenon, Lila and Sarasvati followed suit, their consciousness trailing behind. In a brief interlude, Viduratha's ethereal form regained awareness, emerging from the post-mortem unconsciousness. He perceived even his physical form, meticulously preserved through funeral rites performed by his kin.

A Divine Verdict and Ethereal Transition

Embarking towards the south, Viduratha traversed realms until he reached the domain of the god of death. There, he received a divine decree absolving him of sin, allowing him to reenter his former body, that of King Padma. In a seamless transition, Viduratha's consciousness fused with Padma's, tethered by the latter's ego-sense, akin to a traveler still connected to their homeland despite distant wanderings.

Concerns of Funeral Rites and Ethereal Attainment

Curious about the consequences of incomplete funeral rites, Rama sought clarification from Vasistha. The sage elucidated that the conviction of the departed soul, whether rites were properly conducted or not, determined their ethereal form. Such is the power of consciousness, shaping reality through faith. Even poison transforms into nectar through unwavering belief. Yet, righteous rites performed with faith assist the departed soul, unless overshadowed by immense wickedness.

Return to the Palace of King Padma

Reentering the opulent palace where Padma's embalmed body lay, Lila and Sarasvati found all royal attendants in a deep slumber. Amidst the serene atmosphere, the ethereal presence of Viduratha, now merged with Padma's form, awaited further revelations on the path of cosmic consciousness and divine understanding.