Jain Journal 1975 10

Author(s): Jain Bhawan Publication
Publisher: Jain Bhawan Publication

Page 37

JAIN JOURNAL
is cut. If his shadow falls on a Brahmin, he is at once cut to pieces.
Siddhartha :
Indeed, it is a lamentabe state of affairs. But we do not behave with our subjects like that.
Vardhaman :
We might be treating our subjects better, but our subjects do not constitute the entire humanity. People have these days forgotten their civic duties. The precious jewel of 'truth' is cast aside, while they are busy collecting imitation glass of 'falsehood'. Selfishness has strangled altruism. The master treats his servants like chattels. If they can not earn for their master, they are subjected to physical tortures. The lot of women is even worse. Their husband treat them like bought slaves. If I marry, I shall protect only one woman, unmarried I can be the saviour of entire womanhood. I shall narrow my outlook by being tied down to one woman.
Siddhartha :
Here I do not agree with you. A single wave breaking at the shore, is not the end of the numerous waves rising on the high seas. You shall be like the mighty ocean. By imbibing one wave unto you, you shall attract thousands of more waves to the shore.
Vardhaman :
But this will not end my karmic bondage. I want to do penance to shed off all karmic bondage. And this will be possible only when I leave this palace. I shall gather strength from the forces of nature. The free air that pervades the entire cosmos, will bring to me the message of universal love. And it is this universal love alone that can be the saviour of humanity.
Siddhartha :
So I take it that you will not marry and you will also leave this palace.
Vardhaman :
I await your sanction.
Siddhartha :
I do not know what to tell to those kings who daily wait on me, with proposals for your marriage. What should I tell to my subjects, who are eagerly looking forward to their welfare under your benign regime.