34Kukkuripa

Kukuripa, a Brahmin from Kapilavastu who was puzzled over the problems of existence came to place his trust in Tantra, and in time chose the path of renunciation. He began his itinerant career by beffing his way slowly toward the caves of Lumbini.

One day, on his journey, he heard a soft whining in the bushes. When he investigated, he found a puppy so starved that she could no longer stand. Taking pity of the creature, he carried her with him on his journey, sharing the contents of his begging bowl, and watching with delight as she began to grow strong and healthy.

The two were often each other’s company and while Kukkuripa was in the continuous recitation of his mantra, the 12 years passed so quickly. The yogin then attained the magical powers of prescience and divine insight. The gods of the 33 Sensual Heavens noticed and invited him to their paradise to celebrate his achievements. He accepted the invitation and embarked upon a ceaseless round of self-indulgent feasting and pleasure.

While on earth, his faithful dog waited patiently for Kukkuripa, finding food only places close to the cave. On Kukkuripa’s side, despite all the luxury, he has not forgotten his loving companion and misses her dearly. Again and again he told the gods he had to return but they kept persuading him to stay. One day, he looked down from the heavens and realized his loyal dog was pining for him. Kukkuripa’s heart ached for her and immediately, he descended from paradise to rejoin her in the cave.

The dog was filled with joy when she saw Kukkuripa, but as soon as he sat down and begin to scratch her favorite spot, she vanished. There before him, stood a radiantly beautiful Dakini. She praised him for overcoming temptation and taught him how to achieve the symbolic union of skillful means and perfect insight. He soon attained the state of supreme realization, and for a long time he engaged in selfless service. In due time, he ascended to the Paradise of the Dakinis with a vast entourage of disciples.

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