Way of Life Part 4

SR No.: 006516
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Bhadraguptasuri
Publisher: Vishvakalyan Prakashan Trust Mehsana
Publication Year: 1986
Total Pages: 430
Language: English
Classification: Book_English & Religion
File Size: 17 MB

Page 86

76
THE WAY OF LIFE
“While listening to the sutra, whenever I hear the word Gautam I will offer one gold coin to show my devotion to the scripture".
The next day, the Chief Minister wore clean clothes and came to the upashraya with gold coins. He first saluted the Gurudev and then saluted the Muni who was to read out the sutra to him. Pethad Shah sat still with firm concentration and began hearing the sutra. Whenever he heard the word, Gautam, he made an offering of one gold coin to show his devotion. The recitation of the Bhagavatisutra was over in five days. The Chief Minister made an offering of thirty-six thousand gold coins to show his devotion to the scripture. Using that money, he established seven large libraries in cities like Brooch. Of course, he always received inspiration and encouragement from Acharya Dharmagoshasooriji. The meeting with enlightened men kindles in the hearts of devotees the light of knowledge, and makes it burn brightly.
Do you entertain the desire of listening to the Jin Agams? You will certainly hear them if you make the acquaintance of enlightened men.
A HOUSEHOLDER BUT NOT INFERIOR TO A SADHU
There was an advocate in Ahmedabad. He had an excellent practice. Once, he happened to become acquainted with an Acharya. The Acharya was well-versed in the Jin Agamas. He said to the advocate, "You must hear the forty-five Agams in accordance with the prescribed rules". The advocate felt greatly enthusiastic. He decided to hear the Agamas.
Every day, he took the vow of Ekasan and sitting still with concentration in the samayik posture, he began hearing the Agams. Thus he heard the forty-five Agams. Then, he gave up his profession of an advocate. He undertook the vow of celibacy at the age of about thirty five or forty.
I became thoroughly familiar with him. One day, he showed me his diary. In it, he had written out the vows he had undertaken and the related rules and principles. When I read it,