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such power and knowledge. You should repent for your mistake." Gautam swämi set aside his alms and immediately returned to Änand and asked for his forgiveness for doubting his honesty and truthfulness.
ÄNAND SHRÄVAK
It is characteristic in Jain religion that if a guru makes an error he should ask forgiveness from the disciple. Also if monks make an error then they should ask forgiveness from the laypeople.
Gautam swämi asking Änand Shrävak for forgiveness
In the later part of his life Änand fasted until death and was then reborn as a heavenly being in Saudharma Devaloka (a heavenly region). After the completion of that heavenly life, he would be reborn as a human and would attain liberation.
Moral:
The essence of human life is to practice one or more of the twelve vows in daily life. This story tells us how householders (shrävaks) should have faith in truth. It also shows that Gautam swämi was simple, humble and a true follower of Lord Mahävir. When Lord Mahävir pointed out his mistake, Gautam swämi went to Änand without any hesitation to ask for forgiveness even though he was the chief disciple of Mahävir swämi. It also shows how impartial Lord Mahävir was because even though his chief disciple had made a mistake, he did not cover it up. On the contrary, he took the side of truth and explained his mistake to Gautam swämi. Anyone can make a mistake, but one must accept it and make up for it.
25 - Questions:
1. When Änand shrävak achieved Avadhi-jnän after severe penance, austerities and meditation, what happened when Gautam swämi came to visit him?
2. When Gautam swami realized that Änand shrävak was telling the truth, what did he do?
JAIN STORY BOOK
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