________________
Religious Position
239
Ill-omens : According to Abhayatilakagani, if the Sun has tawny and burning light all around, it may beget destruction (IV.66). If the sky appears as if blood-besmeared it may also beget destruction (IV.64) Earth-quake (XIII.38), and falling of comets (IV.70) are thought to be inauspicious. In an unfavourable situation, medicinal herbs dry (IV.“8-70). Dryness in the rut exuding l.om the temples of the elephants indicates a forth-coming destruction (IV.64).
Appearance of vultures with extended wings is not favourable (IV.65; XII.67). A king being followed by Pretas while marching, may face defeat (IV.61). Similarly, Rākşasīs following with a deformed face indicate to an eventual defeat (IV.59.60).
Transgrsession of a king by the queens (IV.66); a slip of the upper garment from the head (IV.67) and the murder of the queen by the king are conceived to result in his defeat and death.
Men of bad appearance were also thought to be inauspicious and they were not allowed to come before a king (Ku.II.33).
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
