Walk With Me

SR No.: 006594
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Chandanaji Acharya, Vastupal Parikh
Publisher: Veerayatan
Publication Year: 2011
Total Pages: 186
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 12 MB

Page 167

Ch. 18: Taamali of Tamralipti -Extreme Penance
possessions, fame, etc. are only temporary. It eventually turns into sorrow when the sources disappear. Freedom of the soul is the true source of permanent happiness. I cannot be truly happy as long as my soul is trapped in the painful cycle of death and rebirth. I am now weak and fragile. Death must indeed be around the corner."
He was now deeply contemplating on the spiritual aspects of his actions. "I must, therefore, use the remaining time to undertake the supreme penance of 'santhara' (fasting unto death)* and thereby achieve maximum freedom. As quickly as possible, I should now return to Tamralipti and consult with those whom I know, pundits, astrologers and Sraman monks about the appropriateness of my decision."
Consult he did! His resolve strengthened, he selected a spot in an isolated garden to the north-east of the city. Sitting in the meditation position of padmasan (lotus position), he drew a small circle around him marking the limits of his movement on the ground, and took a vow not to move outside that circle, and give up all food and liquid until death. "I shall neither repent my decision, nor shall I be afraid of death. I shall neither break my vow nor wish death to hasten. I will free myself from all attachments - for this world, for my family, and for my body. I know that I was born alone, and alone will I have to leave."
As this was going on the earth, the celestial beings of the kingdom
*
A santhara is sometimes misinterpreted as suicide. Whereas, suicide is a desperate and cowardly act of killing oneself to escape pain, difficulties, disappointment, or sorrow, santhara is an intensely spiritual and courageous act by a person who realizes that the attachment to the physical body impedes liberation. Therefore, a decision is taken in consultation with the family, loved ones and a group of monks and nuns to give up this last bondage. Even today, santhara is frequently celebrated among devout Jains in India.
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