________________
( 200 )
ज्ञाताधर्मकथांग सूत्र
mo
SU
4000
THIRD CHAPTER: ANDAK: INTRODUCTION
Title-Andak means eggs. Although the term has been used in its literal sense only, it provides an important symbol; that of faith. The life process continuing within an egg is apparently invisible. The bird that hatches it still has a deep and unwavering faith in that invisible activity. The moment a shadow of doubt appears it gives rise to unruly behaviour and results in choking the evolution of life. This story highlights the result of such faith and skepticism.
Gist of the Story—There was a beautiful garden named Subhumibhag outside the town of Champa. A wild pea-hen had laid two eggs in a thicket in this garden. Two merchant boys took along Devdutta courtesan and came to Subhumibhag garden for entertainment. They saw those two large and healthy eggs. They arranged to send one egg to each one's house with servants so that domestic hens could hatch and produce peacock chickens for their entertainment.
Son-of-Sagardatta became doubtful if the egg would hatch or not? Nervously he disturbed the egg time and again. All this movement made the egg lifeless.
Son-of-Jinadatta had no such apprehension. He was confident. A few days later a tiny chick broke the shell and came out. It was given under the care of peacock trainers. The chick slowly grew into a beautiful and intelligent peacock. Son-ofJinadatta not only entertained himself but also took this peacock along to various competitions in the town and won high wagers.
r
400mA
1
EYOTE
(200)
JNĀTA DHARMA KATHÄNGA SUTRA
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
