Jain Legend Vol 1

SR No.: 007594
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Hastimal Maharaj, Shuganchand Jain, P S Surana
Publisher: Hastimal Maharaj Shugan C Jain P S Surana
Publication Year: 2011
Total Pages: 367
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 2 MB

Page 273

Mall and Nemin tha did not have any enjoyment karmas left; hence, they did not marry and took initiation without having married. The term kum ra does not just mean unmarried, but also prince and crown prince. Hence in va yakaniryukti D pik, because of his not being crowned king, he is considered to have renounced in his young age.
Demise of Parents
Mah v ra's parents were followers of the rama a tradition. After practising the householder's conduct for many years, when they sensed the end of their time, they repented their bad deeds for purifying their souls, with the arihanta, Siddha and soul as witnesses. They duly accepted condoning of the bad deeds sitting on a fast with raw coconut and giving up four kinds of food. Observing a fast, completing their lifetime in samlekhan they emerged as gods in Acyuta kalpa in the 12th heaven. After sojourn in heaven, they are born in Mah Videha. They attain enlightenment thereafter.
Towards renunciation
With the demise of his parents, Mah v ra's resolve in the womb had been realised. He was 28 years old at that time. Then he expressed his desire to take initiation to his elder brother, Nand vardhana and others. Brother Nand vardhana said, “We are yet to emerge from the mourning for father and mother. Please hold on for some time, and then renounce." Through his clairvoyance, sensing it was not the right time, he said – “Alright, but until when do I wait?” His family members said – “At least for two years." Mah v ra agreed, but said "In this time I shall eat as per my wish.” People agreed happily. After this, for some two years or more, Mah v ra remained at home with a feeling of detachment, but he gave up accepting unfiltered water and dinner after sunset. He observed celibacy. He used to wash his feet too with faultless water, used to sleep on the floor and used to maintain equanimity, giving up anger. Staying this way for a year, the Lord started the yearlong act of giving (var d na). He used to donate one crore eight lakh gold coins everyday. On completing 30 years of age, Mah v ra's desire was successful. At that time as per norms, the lok ntika gods requested Mah v ra – “Lord! Take initiation; establish the religious order for the benefit of all living beings.”
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