Jain Journal 1985 04

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

Page 62

162
JAIN JOURNAL
When Nandisen rose there was no monk. But the mercy and calm that emanated from his eyes were still there, they enveloped the whole earth and the sky.
Nandisen moved to that place where the monk was standing. He resolved in his mind he would fulfil the task which was alloted to him by three ways.
After crossing the forest Nandisen came to a village. At the end of that village there was a hermitage. He sought shelter there and it was given to him.
Nandisen served not only the monks of that place, he also severed those who halted there on their way. Besides he used to serve even the inhabitants of that village. So his name spread all over the area. But Nandisen whose fame was spreading, was immune from the desire of fame. He could remain above all praise and curse devoted to his service. While serving he used to forget himself.
In a few days Nandisen became dear to every one. Every body was pleased with his service.
After a long time cholera broke out in the village as epidemic. Now Nandisen had not a moment for rest. When people began to flee from the village leaving victims to their fate Nandisen would sit near their beds with his eyes full of love and mercy. Days would pass before he could take food. Nights elapsed before he could avail a moment of rest. Still his face bore no sign of anger nor his eyes of tiredness. He was making true his vow-this much was his joy, his fulfilment.
One day getting a little time he sat for meal when some one informed him that a monk was lying on the roadside struck with cholera for the last few days. He needed immediate attention. Nandisen left his meal and was before him very soon.
When Nandisen was there he found him in such a condition that what to speak of attending to him he could not even stand there for a moment. But Nandisen took it with equanimity. In an instant he washed his body. Then he said slowly, “If you can move to the hermitage leaning over me..."