Jain Heritage and Beyond

Author(s): Shailesh Shah
Publisher: Oshwal Associations of The UK

Page 63

MAHAVIRSWAMI The 24th Tirthankar
Mahavirswami is the twenty-fourth Tirthankar. He was born in 599 BC at Kshatriyakund near modern Patna in Bihar. His father, King Siddhartha, and his mother, Queen Trishla, were very religious people and followers of Lord Parshwanath, the twenty-third Tirthankar. When Queen Trishla was expecting the baby she had 14 beautiful dreams (some believe sixteen dreams). When the learned scholars were asked about the dreams they said she was going to have an extraordinary child. one who will show the path to true happiness to humanity.
Queen Trishla gave birth to Lord Mahavir in March April on Mahavir Jayanti day in 599 BC. They named him Vardhaman which means 'one who brings prosperity'. 56 maidens from Indralok performed holy rituals and danced to celebrate this auspicious occasion. Attending this ceremony, along with the other gods, was Indra who carried Vardhaman to Mount Meru, where everyone sang the infant's glory.
There are many stories of Mahavir's boyhood. They illustrate that from early childhood, Mahavir believed in practicing non-violence. He did not use force to control even wild and dangerous animals. He knew that all living beings understand the language of love. Once young Mahavir was playing with friends when a snake appeared. His friends were scared and they ran away. On another occasion, Mahavir was not scared of an angry elephant. The elephant eventually became calm and docile.
At seven when Vardhaman was playing with friends an evil demi-god took the form of a cobra and tried to frighten the kids. Brave Vardhaman boldly grabbed the snake and flung it far away. On another occasion, the demi-god joined the children in the disguise of a child. According to the rules of the game, Vardhaman had a chance to ride on the child's back. As Vardhaman climbed onto his back the child transferred himself into a demon. Vardhaman controlled him with his mighty fists. The demon appeared in his true form and praised Vardhaman for his bravery and called him 'Mahavir' meaning very brave.
Though Mahavir was born with worldly comforts and luxuries, they never attracted him. He lived a simple life. When his parents died, he decided to become a monk. He asked for his brother's permission. His brother was still mourning for the loss of their parents. He therefore requested Mahavir to wait for a couple of years before leaving. Mahavir waited for two years, during which he led a totally detached life. After realizing this, his brother gave him permission to become a monk. Mahavir was thirty years old when he gave up his worldly life and all worldly activities. He spent of his time in austerity and
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