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________________ CHANDANBALA As Lord Mahavir had fasted for five months and twenty-five days, heavenly beings celebrated the end of Lord Mahavir 's fast. By magical power, Chandanbala's shackles broke, her hair grew back, and she was again dressed as a princess. There was music and celebration that drew the attention of King Shatanik. He came to see Chandanbala with his family, ministers, and many other people. Sampul, a servant from her father's kingdom, recognized Chandanbala. He walked towards her, bowed and broke out in tears. King Shatanik asked, "Why are you crying?" Sampul replied, "My Lord, this is Vasumati, the princess of Champapuri, daughter of King Dadhivahan and Queen Dharini." The king and queen now recognized her and invited her to live with them. Later, when Lord Mahavir attained Kevaljnan (perfect knowledge) he reestablished the fourfold order of the Jain Sangha. At that time, Chandanbala took Diksha and became the first nun (Sadhvi). She became the head nun of the Jain order. Later on, she attained Keval-jnan and liberation from the cycle of life and death. Bhagawan Mahavir accepting alms from Chandanbala We can learn about a number of behaviors that are cited in this story. Moola's heart was blinded by jealously and therefore she did not understand Chandanbala's plight, or the role of a mother and the compassion of a father. This led her to do terrible things resulting in bad karma. This depicts the destructive power of jealously and why we should avoid it. Next, the selfless old servant who told Dhanavah about what had occurred. She did this out of compassion and risked her own demise at the hands of Moola. This good Karma will bind to her soul as Punya and demonstrates the principles of Jainism. Similarly, Dhanavah's compassion and treatment of Chandanbala supports the proper role of a father and the willingness to help an orphan. Lastly, Chandanbala's offering of food to Lord Mahavir, despite her own pitiful situation, is very selfless and comes from the heart. Following the principles of Jainism ultimately led Chandanbala to the path of liberation. 91 JAIN STORY BOOK For Private & Personal Use Only Jain Education International www.iainelibrary.org
| SR No. | 201061 |
| Book Title | Chandanbala |
| Original Sutra Author | N/A |
| Author | JAINA Education Committee |
| Publisher | JAINA Education Committee |
| Publication Year | 2010 |
| Total Pages | 3 |
| Language | English |
| Classification | Article, Jaina_Education, & 0_Jaina_education_Story |
| File Size | 1 MB |