

Episode 440 - The Orphan Boy and the Heedless King
Jun 18, 2025
A fascinating Indian myth unfolds as a powerful king meets a ragged orphan boy, challenging the nature of authority and wisdom. The disguised Vishnu reveals the fleeting nature of power, stressing the dignity of every individual. The orphan's perspective sheds light on the dangers of narcissistic leadership and societal division. This discussion emphasizes embracing vulnerability and recognizing our shared humanity, calling for inner exploration to heal personal and collective wounds.
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Indra and the Beggar Boy
- Indra, the archetypal king, builds endlessly grand palaces after defeating death, but becomes dissatisfied and overpowers his people with demands.
- A ragged beggar boy, who is Vishnu in disguise, reveals the fleeting nature of power through a procession of ants once noble rulers like Indra.
Warning Against Concentrated Power
- Concentrating power in a narcissistic ruler risks widespread societal harm and exhaustion.
- Each of us embodies the 'beggar boy,' aware of misplaced power and its dangers.
Narcissistic Leaders’ Fragility
- Narcissistic leaders project grandiosity to hide deep insecurity and fragility.
- They create chaos and crises to manipulate and dominate others.