The Bodhisattva was born as a prince when Brahmadutta was ruling Benares. Several astrologers and scholars from many countries came for his naming ceremony. They read the child's horoscope and declared that his fortuneswere excellent. "O King! The child will come to possess five types of weapons and rule the world victoriously!" they said. The young prince wasthus named Panchayudhan (panch- five, ayudhweapon).
A few years went by. The king sent the princeto Takshashila, which was one of the best centresof learning in those times. There were several distinguished scholars, and Panchayudhan soon accomplished himself in the shastras.
The head of the gurukul summoned the prince after he had completed his education and handed five weapons to him. After taking his blessings, the prince started on his journey towards Benares.
There was a dense forest on his way. A fewmen who saw Panchayudhan warned him,"You're very young. There's a terrible demon here called Romanjan. If he were to see you, he wouldn't he sitate to kill you and eat you up! We advise you to take another path and avoid the forest!"
But Panchayudhan was undeterred. He continued his journey. As he walked through the forest, he saw Romanjan. The demon was astall as a palm tree; a pair of blazing eyes staredfrom his large face. A coat of thick hair grew from his tough, hide-like skin. He blocked Panchayudhan's way and thundered, "Stop! Who are you? Where are you going? I'll swallow youright here and now!"
Panchayudhan was calm. "You demon! Icame this way knowing that I'll meet you. Youcan't harm me in any way. Leave this place beforesomething happens to you!" The prince sent an arrow towards the demon to warn him. But the arrow did not hurt him! Panchayudhan next senta shower of arrows, still nothing happened tothe demon. The prince now tried sending apoison-tipped arrow, but even that was in vain.
With a fearful howl, the demon pounced upon Panchayudhan. The young boy tried defending himself with his sword, but that did not deter the demon either. Romanjan laughed aloud and said, "I can see that you're not like others by the tireless way you're attacking me! You've the courage to face a mighty demon like me! While most people usually run away at the very sight of me, you stand here without any fear! Tell me honestly, aren't you scared of me even a little?"
