Ahimsa the Ultimate Winner

SR No.: 001630
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: N P Jain
Publisher: Prakrit Bharti Academy
Publication Year: 2004
Total Pages: 298
Language: English
Classification: Book_English, Religion, & Ahimsa
File Size: 18 MB

Page 57

the Capital of Lichhavi Republic was oozing with wealth, opulence and prosperity with its 7777 mansions. There were palaces with gold, silver and brass domes, 7777 entertainment centers and gardens, many water fountains, streams and other luxurious comforts.
When Queen Trishala conceived Mahavir, she saw unusual 14 dreams (as per Shvetambar tradition) and 16 dreams (as per Digambar traditions). The dreams were taken as forerunners of the birth of a great soul who would be in perfect communion not only with his own self but also with other life and natural environment around him. The dreams were an elephant, a white bull, Goddess of wealth, a lion, full moon, two fragrant garlands, rising sun, golden pitcher filled with water, large and beautiful lotuslake, milk-ocean, celestial chariot, heap of jewels and smokeless fire. Digambar tradition adds two more dreams.
In his childhood, Mahavir was called Vardhaman. The name Vardhaman was given to him because his parents noticed that since his birth, the family and the kingdom added to their progress, prosperity and happiness. When saints visited the Royal Palace and saw young Vardhaman, they were impressed by his serenity and equanimity and named him as Sanmati. His acts of courage, valour and bravery in overpowering ferocious animals earned him the title of Veer, Ativeer and finally Mahavir. He was also called Jnatraputra and Vaishalik.
From his early years, the seed of detachment had taken root. Gradually, the urge to renounce all material bondages grew in his mind as he felt the need to probe the real truth about life and its purpose. Digambar tradition maintains that Mahavir did not marry, while the Shvetambar tradition maintains that Mahavir married Princess Yashodhara who showed sympathetic understanding of his growing detachment particularly in the last two years prior to his leaving the palace.
Ahimsa: The Ultimate Winner
(36)