Way of Life Part 3

SR No.: 006515
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Bhadraguptasuri
Publisher: Vishvakalyan Prakashan Trust Mehsana
Publication Year: 1986
Total Pages: 348
Language: English
Classification: Book_English & Religion
File Size: 18 MB

Page 77

DISCOURSE 53
a Sadhu only for half a day. So, he did not know whether a Sadhu could possess wealth or not. He was a Sadhu only for half a day. For this reason, when he became a King, he did not know whether a Sadhu could accept the gift of a Kingdom or not. Another point is this. When Samprati recollected his experiences of his purvajanma; and when he recognized the Guru Maharaj his heart overflowed with joy; and in that state of ecstatic delight, he could not even think of the point whether he could give his empire to the Acharya or not. The lofty feeling of dedication arose in his heart. The feeling of dedication arises from the virtue of gratitude. "I must surrender my empire to the feet of the great Acharya on account of whose grace and favour, I have attained this empire". This was the way in which his gratitude surged out of his heart.
Acharya Suhasti taught Emperor Samprati all the doctrines and principles of the Jin dharma and impelled him to adore the Jain dharma. The Acharya also made Samprati attain extraordinary spiritual powers and influence. In his life-time, Emperor Samprati built one lakh twenty five thousand Jain temples in India. He got one and a quarter crore Jin idols made and installed in temples. He propagated the philosophy of nonviolence.
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Now, have you understood, what quality is called gratitude? You can develop a deep intimacy with that great man in whom you find this lofty virtue of gratitude. Associate with those who possess the virtues of courtesy respectfulness and gratitude and listen to their noble and elevating words. In the grihastajivan i.e. in the life of a householder, your association with others is a matter of great importance. You must choose the right companions and associates. Of course, you may not have these great virtues but on account your intimacy with men. possessing those virtues, some day, you too may acquire them.
ONLY A MAN WHO IS FREE FROM FEAR AND AGITATION CAN ATTAIN SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT
I know how and in what direction the flood of the present day life is flowing. Now-a-days, you feel that the association