There was, once upon a time, a great saint named Eknath who lived in Maharashtra. He was known far and wide for his patience and kindness but there was in that region a rich man who had no belief in saints, and who was always looking for some way to discredit Eknath

One day a poor Brahmin came to that region, seeking to gain money. He wished to give his daughter in marriage, and of course he needed funds to do so. This Brahmin went to the rich man and begged for some alms, and the rich man replied that if he could go and make a man named Eknath angry, he would receive more than enough for the wedding.

The Brahnin knew nothing about Eknath, but learning where he lived, went to his house, thinking it should be very easy to make someone angry. He found the saint sitting by the door, quietly chanting the name of God, and as the Brahmin approached, he began to hurl abuse at him. Eknath paid no attention to the insults, instead smiling and offering the Brahmin a seat.

Surprised, the Brahmin sat, but continued to insult Eknath. For his part, the saint continued his chant, and when he concluded, called his wife to bring some refreshment for the Brahmin.

The Brahmin struggled to find more rude and vulgar things to say, also insulting the wife, but neither she nor her husband took any notice. Then Eknath said to the Brahmin, “Soon it will be time for our midday meal. It is simple food, but please join us.” “But before the meal,” the wife added, “you would surely like to bathe. I will prepare the bath for you.”

At these gestures of kindness, the Brahmin was finally overcome with remorse. Weeping and sobbing, he prostrated himself before them both, begging their pardon for his terrible behaviour.

Then he explained that it was done out of need, and told them what the rich man had said, that if he could make Eknath angry, he would receive enough money for his daughter’s wedding.

“But my friend!” said Eknath, “you should have told me that sooner.Then I would have immediately become angry for you!”