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[ The Married Life of Prince Vardhamana
lose no time in coming under the banner of Non-Violence and finding their way to peace, prosperity and happiness.” Hearing these words of gods Lord Mahavira felt it necessray to proclaim the importance of charity before the world charity which he considered to be the first requisite for attaining Moksha. (Salvation ). With this ideal object in his mind, he began to give alms to the poor and needy. At such times god Vishramana, by order of Indra , always keeps the treasure of the would-be Tirthankars full, so that they might fulfil their mission without any hindrance and explain the right method of almsgiving to the world. This was also the case with lord Mahavira. The scriptures have dealt with the method of alms giving at great length. The man, who always gives alms to the poor, is loved by all. Even his enemies become his friends. Charity is one thing in this world which purges a man of all evils. Its value increases a hundred-fold if it is given with devotion and sweet words. It is said that it is very difficult to find a man who is generous yet sweettongued, who is learned yet mo lest and not proud, who is brave yet forbearing, and who is wealthy yet liberal. But prince Mahavira combined within himself all these four qualities in their best form.
Nandi-Vardhana, too, tried his best to assist his dearest brother in accomplishing his resolve. He opened charity houses at many places, where several kinds of things besides food and clothes were given in charity. The deformed, the decrepit the blind, the lame; the maimed, the dumb, and the orphans whoever went there did not come out disappointed. They were given alms according to their own choice. Now, the people in the town and outside felt that the prince was almost sure to accept consecration and to busy liniself in
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