________________
460 ]
[ Thirteen Queens of Shrenika Renounce world
respectfully, but as the hermits were absorbed in meditation, they did not speak to them. Then Bhadra said to both of them, "Your families, O Hermits, are very auxious to hear one or two words from your mouths. Oblige us by castmg at least one blessed look over us. Tell us also some method for improving our worldly lives." But these affectionate words of Bhadra produced no effect upon the hearts of the lierroits. They were quite as unmoved as before. Bhadra and her family, therefore, had to leave them alone and returned home in utter disappointment. Of the two hermits, Dhana due to complete destruction of his Karmas, attained Liberation, after some time; while Shali Bhadra got Sarvartha-Siddhi (a heaven ) after his death in this world. After completing his divine life there, he would again be born as a man, and as a result of his severe penances in that life, would be able to attain Liberation. THIRTEEN QUEENS OF KING SHRENIKA
RENOUNCE THE WORLD Once Lord Mahavira came to Champa, which was at that time under the rule of King Kaunika. When the Queens of the late King Shrenika heard the news of the Lord's arrival, they went to his Samavasarana to see his feet. The instruction of the Lord influenced thirteen of them so deeply that all the pride of position disappeared from their hearts in a moment. Their good Karmas matured, due to which they felt a desire for self-realization. They were now inclined to accept consecration, and with the permission of their son, Kaunika, they did accept it at the feet of the Lord. After their consecration they were kept under the guidance of Chandana-Bala.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
