Why did the darveshis who brought the tiger have mixed feelings about its death?

The darveshis' reaction to the tiger's death was complex, reflecting a mix of worldly sorrow and spiritual understanding. As Chapter 31 describes, they were 'sad-faced' because the tiger was their primary 'means of livelihood' and sustained their family (Verse 158). Its death meant a direct loss of their income. However, at the same time, they 'also looked pleased' (Verse 142). This pleasure stemmed from their recognition that the diseased, near-death creature had attained liberation by dying at the feet of a saint. They were pleased at heart that the tiger found the 'path to salvation,' which they understood was a far greater outcome than its continued suffering (Verse 157).