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25 Änand Shrävak
Once upon a time, there lived a king named Jitshatru in the city of Vänijya, India. A rich householder named Änand also lived in the same city. He was so rich that he had 4 million gold coins, an equal amount of cash, an equal amount invested in business, lots of jewelry, and many other assets. He also owned 40,000 cows. He was highly respected by the king as well as by the people of Vanijya.
One day Lord Mahävir visited Vänijya and delivered a sermon. After listening to the sermon, Änand decided to follow Jainism by accepting the twelve vows of a householder. Änand observed these vows for fourteen years and progressed spiritually. One day Anand Shravak attained a special ability known as Avadhi-jnän (clairvoyance) by performing severe penance, austerities, and meditation. His Avadhi-jnän was more pure and powerful than that acquired by other laypeople in their spiritual progress.
ÄNAND SHRAVAK
At this time Lord Mahävir and his disciples were in town. While returning from Gochari (getting food or alms), Gautam-swämi learned that many people were going to pay homage to Anand Shravak for his newly acquired spiritual ability (Avadhi-jnän) and his austerities. He decided to visit him. Änand was
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Gautam-swämi visiting Anand Shrävak
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