The Unity of Muslims — Page 9
9 and pleasant. Strength and endurance thresholds also differ from person to person. One individual can lift one maund 5 whilst another can lift two maunds. People vary in their ability to estimate distances. A soldier, for instance, possesses the skill to approximate distance by eye. Measuring instruments are a recent invention. In the past, officers underwent extensive training in range estimation methods, as the success of an army often depended on proficiency in this skill. At any given point, an officer would estimate the distance from which to fire cannons at a potential target. This technique played a pivotal role in securing victory in numerous past wars. However, some individuals lack awareness of this strategy, resorting to blind guesses. In a renowned tale, a raja commits a grave sin, and the pandits assert that although the transgression cannot be effaced, its effects can be mitigated if an offering is made to a specific kind of brahmin. Distraught, the prince discovers that no brahmin of the type resides in the area. Consequently, the King orders his ministers to begin a search. One minister seeks permission to take this initiative and, with approval, positions himself on a major road, screening the passing crowds. As rumours of the search spread, many individuals 5 A traditional unit of mass used in India and Pakistan; 1 maund is equivalent to 37. 32 kg. [Publishers]