Nachiketa stood at Yama's doorstep for three days waiting for Yama's arrival; Yama was impressed by Nachiketa's resoluteness, and offered him three boons. Firstly, Nachiketa requested that his father may welcome him lovingly upon his return home; next that he be granted the knowledge by which he can be worthy of living in the heavens; and lastly he may attain knowledge of the eternal soul, the Atma, which transcends death.
Nachiketa stood at Yama's doorstep for three days waiting for Yama's arrival; Yama was impressed by Nachiketa's determination, and granted him three wishes. Firstly, Nachiketa requested that his father may welcome him lovingly upon his return home; next he be given the knowledge to live in heaven; and lastly, he may gain understanding of the eternal soul, Atma, which transcends death.