________________
Lav and Kush
313
to Lav and Kush all the vast knowledge and attainments, he had mastered.
The education of Lay and Kush went on for a long time. It was a long and arduous endeavour. They had to carry out their studies with extraordinary industry and perserverance. Excitement or impatience or haste had no place in that educational process. The boys carried out their studies with indefatigable industry and unfailing dedication. A long time passed thus. The education of the two boys went on unimpeded. They passed from boyhood to youth. They became incomparable experts in the art of war and attained a supreme mastery over all knowledge. They had attained such a lofty level of excellence that even gods would come down to have a glimpse of their radiant faces. They became such heroic warriors that they could rout even the greatest gods.
Sita sometimes took delight in watching their militaric skill and sometimes, she took delight in listening to their scriptural discussions. Sometimes, she heard discussions going on between the teacher and the pupils and sometimes, she heard the discussions going on between the two brothers. At such times, she felt greatly delighted, and her heart overflowed with joy. Lav and Kush loved Sita; honoured her and adored her as a goddess. Lay and Kush were absolutely free from arrogance, talkativeness and impoliteness which are natural in youngsters. The darkness of infatuation had not yet fallen upon them. They had not fallen into the whirlwinds of negligence or indiffe or ineptitude, but they were free from all such weaknesses and vices.
King Vajrajang felt greatly happy when he saw the blooming youngsters. He made several plans for their future. One day, he approached Sita and said in a humble voice.
"Revered lady! Lav and Kush have stepped on the threshold of youth. They have attained mastery over all arts and accomplishments at the feet of Siddharth. They are grown up boys."
"Actually, all this is the result of Siddhartha's unceasing guidance and enlightened instructions !”
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org