________________
Mother gives in
On meeting Amar's Gurudev, his mother realized that her son was in good hands and no harm would befall him. She told him: Son, the great saint who has taken you under his protection is indeed worthy of worship. His company will definitely help you rise. After meeting him I have no objection to letting you stay and study with him. However, I would like to bear the expenses for your food and lodging.
Amar accepted this condition happily, and so was able to stay at the lotus feet of his Guru. The family, minus Amar, returned to Delhi.
Another initiation
In the divine presence of his Guru, surrounded by his love and protection, Amar felt truly blessed. Gurudev, on his part, also felt a soul to soul connection with the young boy. With an unfettered heart he started showering the boy with divine grace. All the knowledge that could be imparted to an uninitiated person was bestowed on Amar in abundance.
At this time Amar had the opportunity to witness another initiation which again had a profound effect on him. This and the growing feeling of vairagya or detachment that he was experiencing prompted him to request his Guru, yet again, to give him initiation. He said: Gurudev, you have just given the initiation mantra to another disciple. Can you not also give it to me?
Gurudev understood Amar's strong desire but just smiled and replied:
Amar, your desire will surely be fulfilled, but not until you have your parents permission.
Arrival in Banga: Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated
Amar wandered with his Gurudev from place to place for three years. During the course of their travels, they arrived at a town called
shantidoot messenger of peace
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org