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The story of life of Skandak is as follows
To the north-east of Rajagriha city was Kritangala city. Very near to that was a town named Shravasti. There lived Parivrajak Skandak, a disciple of Katyayan Parivrajak. He was a scholar of Vedas, Vedangas, history, ethics and other philosophies.
In Shravasti also lived Pingal, a Nirgranth Shravak (Jain) who was an expert of Nirgranth scriptures.
Once Pingal and Skandak met. Pingal asked Skandak
"Skandak! Is this Lok (universe) with an end or it is endless?"
"Being is with an end or endless?"
"State of liberation is with an end or endless?"
"Status of the liberated soul, Siddha, is with an end or endless?"
"With what type of death a being increases or reduces the worldly life?"
Hearing these ambiguous questions Skandak was puzzled. It was impossible to provide conclusive answers. He was lost into his thoughts and could not utter a word. His mind was in a turmoil and he became doubtful about his great knowledge.
Just then he heard from people that Bhagavan Mahavir has come to the nearby town of Kritangala. To get answers of these questions form Bhagavan Mahavir he proceeded towards that town.
Before he reached their Bhagavan Mahavir said to Gautam Ganadhar—
"Gautam! Today you will meet an old friend."
Gautam asked
"Who? Bhagavan !"
"Skandak Parivrajak."
"Why is he coming here?"
"Pingala Shravak had asked him questions about the end and endlessness of the universe and other things. He could not provide any answer. He is coming to me to seek
answers.
Before Bhagavan Mahavir could add more Gautam saw Skandak approaching. Gautam stepped ahead to welcome him. Skandak was very happy.
Later, after paying due courtesies he placed his questions before Bhagavan. In his Syadvad style Bhagavan provided all the answers.
Getting answers to all his questions, Skandak was highly impressed. He got initiated by Bhagavan. He sincerely observed 12 Bhikshu Pratimas and the Gunaratnasamvatsar tap. He resolutely lead an austere ascetic life for 12 years. During the last days of his life
४६६
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