Note 4 — V. SUDHANA AVADĀNA.1

Not far from the lake was a hermitage, rich in flowers, and fruits, and birds which uttered varied notes. Therein a Rishi abode, full of gentleness, mercy, and kindness towards living creatures. To this Rishi the hunter was wont to go daily, in the morning, at midday, and in the evening. To him he gave a full account of what had taken place between him and the Nāga Janmachitra. The Rishi said to him, “What need have you of jewels and gold? That habitation contains the Amogha-chain4 (i.e., that which holds fast). You must ask for that.” As a desire for that Amogha-chain arose within the hunter’s mind, he followed the advice of the Rishi, and again betook himself to the abode of the Nāgas. There he saw the Amogha-chain at the entrance of the Nāgas’ abode, and perceiving that it was the chain which he wanted, he entered into the abode. The Nāga Janmachitra and the other Nāgas were delighted, and they gave him jewels. But he said, “Jewels I want not; rather give me the Amogha-chain.” Janmachitra replied, “What need have you of it? To us it is most needful. When the Garuḍa plagues us, it is to this chain that we are indebted for safety.” The hunter said, “As ye are but seldom threatened with danger from the Garuḍa, therefore it is not so very necessary for you. But I am constantly in want of it. Therefore give it to me, if ye are mindful of the benefit conferred and the service performed.” The Nāga Janmachitra said, “As this man has done me a great service, I will give him the chain, after I have asked my father and mother.” After asking his parents, he give him the chain. Thereupon the hunter, as if he had recovered himself, returned home from the Nāgas’ abode with the Amogha-chain, full of happiness and joy.