The Indian Arsounas, friend of man and a gentle king,
hated slaughtering.
He never waged wars.
But the fearful god of war was displeased-
(his glory was lessened, his temples were emptied)-
and he entered the palace of Arsounas in high dudgeon.
The king was frightened and he said, "Great God,
forgive me if I cannot take the life of a man".
The god answered scornfully, "Do you consider yourself
more just than I? Do not be deluded by words.
No life is taken. Know that no one was ever born,
nor does anyone die."
Cavafy