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DISCOURSE VIII
THE TREASURES OF SOUL
Gentlemen,
I hope you remember, we are proceeding with the discussions about the soul halting in this world for a temporary period from the 36th chapter of Shri Uttaradhvavana Sutra of the great Lords.
We had enough discussion in this connection but the subject of soul is very subtle and deep so we have still many other matters left for discussions.
You must have heard of treasures of the wealthy people or the kings, consisting of gold, silver, diamonds, pearls etc. Some treasures contain many valuable and marvellous items preserved. Sometime back people used to go to see the valuable treasure of native kings of Gaekwar in Nazarbag palace and were surprised to see the curtain of real pearls.
It is reported that the treasures of the king Nanda and Alexander were highly valuable. But the treasure of soul is far costlier than any of these treasures and it is to be unlocked and the key of the said treasure is to be handed over to you. Mind well!
Before unlocking the treasure of soul let me mention its two distinguishing characteristics. Firstly the treasure of the kings or the people can be stolen and broken open by thieves and robbers, can be consumed to ashes by fire or drenched with water. Secondly this earthly treasure is not movable and hence cannot be carried along with you but this treasure of soul can conveniently be carried along by you wherever you move. What adventures the people undergo to possess the worldly treasures! They sojourn in dark nights in woods, enter the dreadful mountain caves and even descend into the dark cavities of the earth. They even wander on far off desolate islands surrounded by surging waves of the ocean in search of worldly treasures. There they even stake with their lives to fight against any odds coming on their way. But to achieve spiritual treasure you have not to wander through forests, mountains, caves or oceans. It is very near to you. Quite in your
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