Sallekhana is Not Suicide

SR No.: 001568
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: T K Tukol
Publisher: L D Indology Ahmedabad
Publication Year: 1976
Total Pages: 124
Language: English
Classification: Book_English & Religion
File Size: 8 MB

Page 43

Sallekhanā in Practice
and preached the religion which would last as long as the sun and moon exist. Reference is made to the illustrious Munis like Gautama, Padmanandi alias Kundakundācārya who by his lofty character acquired the power of moving in the air. Likewise Umāsvāti-munīśvara and Grdhapinchacārya who had acquired all knowledge have also been mentioned. It also mentions the names of Goliācārya, Traikālya Yogi, Soma Deva, Meghacandra, Jinavīrasena, Prabhācandra Siddhānta Deva etc. Besides, this inscription gives a detailed description about the passing away by Sallekhana of Meghacandra Traividya Deva in the forenoon on the 14th day of the bright half of the month of Mārgasira. Knowing that his end was nearing, he sat in the palayankásana pose meditating on the spirit and went to the world of gods. While in meditation, he fixed his mind "on the eternal truth and essence of the spirit, ” cast his body and went to heaven (anantabodhātmakam ātma-tattvam nidhāya cetasy apahāya heyam...). The memorial seems to have been erected by Lakşmīmati Devī, the wife of the General to Vişnu Vardhana, the king of the Hoysaļas who had perfect faith in Jainism, through the wealthy residents of the place; it was consecrated with great splendour on an auspicious day. Laksmīmati is said to have been a very religious minded lady who gave freely the four gifts of food, shelter, medicine and learning. It also mentioned that the General Ganga Rāja repaired many ruined Jaina temples.
Opening with the popular verse of praise (Srimat paramagambhira etc.) the inscriptions to the left of the Maţha refers to Sri Kundakunda who moved about four inches above the ground (caturangula caranaḥ ) and spread the gospel of Vardhamāna. Devendra Siddhadeva, able and born in the line of Deśika Gana was adored by the god of gods. Mention is also made of Divakara-nandi who belonged to the Pustakagaccha and Deśi-gana and obtained great celebrity in the world for his extraordinary self-control and penance. It was 60. Ibid., Vol. II, Ins. 47 (127).