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FLÜGEL : JAINISM AND THE WESTERN WORLD
"Shripuj Jinamuktisūri was the head of a great portion of the Khartara Gaccha, the sect of the strict ascetics, which was founded in the 11th century. His stay in Jaisalmer was caused by the fact that Sheth Himatmal, one of the richest bankers, had built a new temple near Jaisalmer, which he had consecrated by the Shripuj. Although this happened a year ago, and Jaina ascetics are really only permitted to stay in one place for the three months of the rainy season, Jinamukti had lived in the monastery of the Khartar-community already for nearly one and a half years. Probably he found it too difficult to break loose because the community was extraordinarily rich and generous. In the year 1873 he was a man of approximately 35 years, with most intelligent, pleasing features and of great kindness. He received us with great amiability and replied to my "Mahāraja Vande", "my veneration, great king”, with a heartily spoken "Dharmalabha", "may the faith increase". He spoke Sanskrit very skillfully and in our conversation showed himself to be well-versed in the Jaina scriptures, Sanskrit poetry and the sciences. Even the strictest Brāhman would have declared him to be, if not a great pandit, then a real Vyutpanna or a well-educated man. I told him that he should become my Guru or teacher in Jainism, and he declared himself ready to answer all kinds of questions concerning his faith. Even my intention, to enter into the library of the Osvals, interested him. He told me that he, though being the Shripuj, (and) despite many promises (to admit him to the library), had not seen it. They were probably afraid to show him the books, lest he requested some of them as a gift for himself. He showed us his very significant personal library, which he carried with himself, and offered to me to copy what I wanted. It made a peculiar impression to even find in this library a Hindustani Bible, which was presented to him by a missionary. Jinamukti said that he had read the Bible. That he held it in honour was apparent, because he preserved it as carefully as his sacred books. The first visit was followed by many others, and throughout the whole period of my stay our relationship remained equally cordial. In the morning one of his subordinate monks usually came to ask about my well-being, and at approximately four o'clock went to him. He always gave answers to my many questions, supported me with good advice in my negotiations with the Osval library committee and took a lively interest in the discoveries which I soon began to make. Once, when he preached to the congregation, he specially invited us to listen, and allowed us to witness how the community richly presented him with gifts after the sermon. He received some 700 Florins in cash, four small golden and four large silver water-jugs and 860 pieces of cloth, stitched by pious hands, for wrapping his books. Of the latter he gave me one specimen as il remembrance. Even in later years wandering monks did bring me greetings from
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