Gandhar Gautam Swami

Author(s): JAINA Education Committee
Publisher: JAINA Education Committee

Page 2

GANADHARS AND ÄCHĀRYAS
Meanwhile, Somil and the other ten scholars were waiting to greet the expected winner of the debate, Indrabhuti Gautam. However, they were stunned to learn that Indrabhuti had become a disciple of Mahävir. The other ten Brahmin scholars, with their disciples, immediately set out to debate with Mahävir and became his disciples too. Dejected and abandoned, Somil cancelled the ceremony and set all the animals free. These eleven learned scholars were the main disciples of Lord Mahävir and they are called the eleven Ganadhars.
Bhagawan Mahavir answering queries raised by Pundits and
teachers
Änand Shrävak's Clairvoyance Knowledge
Gautam-swami was living his life as a Jain monk observing all the austerities and following the five great vows. Once, while returning from Gochari (getting food or alms), he learned that many people were going to pay homage to Anand Shrävak (a Jain layman). He also learned that Anand Shrävak had attained clairvoyance knowledge known as Avadhi-jnän by performing severe penance and austerities. Since Anand Shravak was one of Mahävir's followers, Gautam-swami decided to visit him.
When Änand saw Gautam-swämi approaching his house, he was very happy. Though weak, due to his austerities, he got up and welcomed Gautam-swämi. He inquired about Anand's health and asked about his special knowledge. With respect, Anand replied to Gautam-swämi, “Reverend Guru, I have attained Avadhi-jnän. With this knowledge I can see as high as the first heaven and as low as the first hell." Gautamswämi explained to Anand, "A layman (Shrävak) can attain Avadhi-jnän, but not to this magnitude. You
38
JAIN STORY BOOK For Private Personal Use Only
Jäin
satir
a tional
www.alineaton