Kathakoca or Treasury of Stories

SR No.: 016059
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: C H Tawney
Publisher: Oriental Books Reprint Corporation New Delhi
Publication Year: 1975
Total Pages: 288
Language: English
Classification: Dictionary & Dictionary
File Size: 15 MB

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told the whole story to Manibhadra. Then Manibhadra, having learned the truth, treated Nandana's wife with great respect. Then that young woman performed with the utmost devotion in the Jaina temple--that Manibhadra had caused to be built-religious services, such as anointing with oil and decorating. By associating with holy women she became free from all connection with evil. Whatever valuable things Manibhadra gave her she disposed of; and she had splendid musical instruments made for the temple of the Jina. When she obtained much wealth, she had made three splendid umbrellas. She performed many penances, she caused many good works to be accomplished, and, according to her power, she exercised charity to the congregation. One day, seeing the merchant Maņibhadra troubled with anxiety, she said: “Why are you anxious to-day, my father ?" Maạibhadra said: “My daughter, the king has presented to the god a garden full of fruit and flowers, but to-day it has suddenly withered up. Many devices have been tried, but it has not become fresh again. This is the reason why I am anxious.” When she heard this, she said : “My father, do not be afflicted; I will restore the grove to its pristine freshness by the power of my virtue." When she had said this she meditated in her heart on the goddess, that executes the orders of the Jina, and refused food of all the four kinds,* and remained in the statuesque posture. Then on the third day the goddess, that executes the orders of the Jina, appeared, and said: “Virtuous lay-woman, the garden is afflicted by a demon, and almost withered, but by the force of thy virtue it shall be as good as ever to-morrow morning." Having said this the goddess disappeared. Then, morning having come, she related all the story of the night to the merchant. When Maạibhadra heard that he went to inspect the garden. When he saw that it was full of flowers and
* See Hoernle's Uvásaga Dasáo,' p. 36, note. They are there enumerated as: asana, food, such as rice, curry, etc. ; puina, drink, such as milk, water-gruel, etc.; khaima, delicacies, such as cocoanut and other fruits ; säima, relishes, such as betel, ginger, etc.