________________
PART IV STORIES DURING BHAGAWÄN MAHÄVIR
The couple witnessing the limits of human endurance
The monk did not distinguish between the King who had caused him pain and the queen who had alleviated his pain. King Shrenik was very impressed and became convinced that Jain monks were truly free from attachment and aversion. Later on, King Shrenik became devoted to Jainism and Bhagawän Mahävir.
Moral:
If one cannot perform a comparable level of penance and devotion, one should not doubt the willpower and devotion of someone who is more religious. In fact, one should be very respectful of such individuals. It is important to serve and support these people rather than cause them pain and suffering. This will help a person to avoid the accumulation of bad karma. Learn to accept and appreciate virtues in others.
28 - Questions:
1. What did King Shrenik feel about Jain monks?
2. What did King Shrenik do on a hunting trip?
3. When he told his wife what he had done, what was the queen's reaction? What did they do?
4. What did the monk do when he opened his eyes?
106
JAIN STORY BOOK
