Essence of Jainism Part 02

Author(s): Kushalchandravijay
Publisher: 108 jain Tirth Darshan Trust

Page 98

used to deposit money with some rich merchant, who would be generally prosperous and known for honesty. Once, the ships of such a merchant happened to sail far away. There was no news for quite some time. The merchant had invested all the deposits entrusted to him in his business. Knowing this, his creditors got restless and made demands for return of their money. The merchant was in a fix. He talked to his wife that it was better to commit suicide rather than lose prestige and live. The wife asked him to observe a Samayik before doing anything. When one Samayik was over, she persuaded him to do another Samayik. The third one was also done. Meanwhile, two leading merchants of the town came to give deposit of nearly three crores of rupees. They were not to claim return of money for three or four years. They told his wife that they had full faith in her husband who was known for honesty and virtues. When the merchant completed the last Samayik, his wife talked to him about money proposed to be deposited by the two visitors. The merchant regained nis confidence. He agreed to receive funds. After a few days, his ships also returned safely. The merchant developed full trust in the efficacy of Samayik and in the concept that the merit earned destroys sin. He began to observe Samayik daily, with devotion.
(7) A Thief Attains Kevalgnan by Samayik : In a town there lived a gentleman who could not sleep at night. To pass time, he would talk to his wife on religion or do a Samayik. One night four thieves came to steal. The owner of the house happened to be wide awake observing Samayik. The gentleman heard the disturbance made by a thief who had dared to enter the house, instead of becoming panicky, the gentleman thought that nobody could take away what really belonged to him. His true property-knowledge, faith and conduct were always with him. Hence, he did not disturb Samayik but continued, thinking, "You are in Samayik, why should you think of the wordly affairs, when you have taken a pledge to abandon them, for being in Samayik ? So far as your valuables were concerned, what did you bring with you when you were born ? Certainly nothing will accompany you in the next birth. Empty-handed as you have come, empty-handed you will leave this world. Hence, it is of no use to feel disturbed. Your merit will protect your wealth. Even if it is taken away now, it will come back to you again. Trust God and let your Samayik be not disturbed. In Arihant, Siddha, Sadhu and religion preached by Kevali is your protection and not in any riches. Why should you, therefore, worry about anything ?" Meanwhile, a thief threw out a bundle of stolen goods and the gentleman uttered loudly, "Namo
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