Jain Ramayana Part 3

SR No.: 002023
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Bhadraguptasuri
Publisher: Vishvakalyan Prakashan Trust Mehsana
Publication Year: 2000
Total Pages: 518
Language: English
Classification: Book_English, Story, & Literature
File Size: 24 MB

Page 168

156
JAIN RAMAYAN
and it is only to carry out that great duty that we have become Shramans. The very meaning of Shramandharma is that we should fight against our ignoble desires whenever they arise in us. Yes! Sometimes ignoble desires arise even in our minds; and perplex us. But just because they do so, we need not yield to them. We should struggle against them; and conquer them. I am always by your side; and you need not fear anything. Do not be shaken by them." Pratham muni said in his attempt to persuade Muni Paschim to give up his desire for sensual pleasures.
The face of Paschim Muni showed his feelings of shame, agitation and excitement. His wavering thoughts showed them
nendous conflict arose in his mind between his love of Moksha and his sensual cravings. His mind was caught in a whirlpool of conflicting thoughts and feelings. Therefore, though every word, uttered by Pratham Muni was true and profoundly meaningful. his advice could not reach the depths of his consciousness. The love of the felicity of Moksha had grown weak in his mind. He was completely caught in the snares of Samsar and sensual cravings.
In consequence, Pratham Muni informed the other Munis in his company, of the desire and determination of Paschim Muni. A commotion arose among the Munis. Those Munis, in their turn, surrounded Muni Paschim and tried to persuade him to discard his desire. Muni Paschim kept silently listening to their advice and persuasion; and when they paused, he said in a firm voice.
"Oh you great Munis! You are trying to persuade me to discard my desire for worldly delights and to exercise selfrestraint. I have fully understood your ideas. I chose the path of Sadhudharma only because I deemed worldly pleasures futile and perishable. But man's propensities are changeable. I do not now possess the strength to conquer my sensual desires. I am unable to restrain them. So, whatever you may say, I cannot alter my determination. It is firm like a rock. Your persuasions can't shake it. Kindly pardon me and allow me to proceed on the path which now I have chosen."