Jain Legend Vol 2

Author(s): Hastimal Maharaj, Shuganchand Jain, P S Surana
Publisher: Hastimal Maharaj Shugan C Jain P S Surana

Page 106

blood, he would successfully rob them off their immense wealth. The terror of the thieves and their Bandit Leader Prabhava spread all-over.
Conversation between Jamb and Prabhava
The incidents of Prabhava entering abhadatta's mansion to rob, the transformation of the thieves under the influence of Jamb Kum ra were already discussed earlier in this volume. Subsequently Prabhava with lot of affection said in a gentle voice, “Jamb Kum ra! You are selfenlightened. But still I would humbly like to say something. In this world, women & wealth are two nectar like fruits unattainable even to celestials fortunately you are blessed with both these fruits. Enjoy them as you wish till you are fully content. The learned do not appreciate the sacrifice of the luxuries which are at hand, in anticipation of the unknown bigger happiness hidden in the abysmal future. You are at an age where one enjoys all the worldly pleasures. I fail to understand how the thought of untimely forsaking all your luxuries and renouncing entered into your mind. A person, who relished all the worldly pleasures to his heart's content, and who has arrived at old age, sacrifices and embraces Dharma, then the correctness of the sacrifice is understandable.”
Listening to this, Jamb Kum ra said, “Prabhava! That which you consider a luxury, is like a drop of honey, which is insignificant, worthless and ephemeral, the consequences of which would be very painful”.
Prabhava asked, “Brother! What is this drop of honey?" In reply Jamb Kum ra narrated the tale of drop of honey to Prabhava.
Episode of drop of Honey
With the intention of amassing wealth, a merchant along with many other merchants set out to travel extensively. There was a poor simpleton also with him. While travelling he reached a forest. There a gang of robbers tried to loot them. The poor simpleton was scared to death and somehow managed to escape. After running for some time, he noticed that a fierce wild elephant was chasing him. In order to save his life, he looked around for a secure place. His eyes fell upon a banyan tree nearby. To
106