Jain Legend Vol 2

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

Page 165

Taking the permission of their Guru, the four disciples walked towards their respective desired and chosen places. The first three disciples started their fasting and meditation at the places they selected.
rya Sth labhadra also arrived at Ko 's mansion. Being informed of the arrival of Sth labhadra with whom she had been associated for a long time, and whom she treasured more than her own life, Ko came running to him with her hands folded in welcome. She, in her mind thought that as Sth labhadra's disposition is very delicate by birth, so he has come back forever, as he is oppressed by the burden of his spiritual vows. She smiled at him and welcomed him with sweet words.
rya Sth labhadra said, “Oh female-votary! Permit me stay in your picture chamber for four months.”
Ko overwhelmed with joy said, “Lord! The picture chamber is entirely at your service. Please stay in it and make my life worthwhile."
rya Sth labhadra who had full confidence in himself entered the chamber and sat down. Ko offered the tastiest six-course meal (Madhukari) to him during his customary alms begging. After retiring from the meal, Ko dressed in the most attractive manner, presented she before him, bowed to him and said in a beguiling tone, “O! Treasure of my life! Please shower your nectar-like loving smiles at your beloved one, who is burning in fire of your passion and rejuvenate her.
Monk Sth labhadra remained completely dispassionate and silent.
Realising that her entreaty to fulfil her sensual desire had no effect on Sth labhadra, her hurt feminine pride rose to its full. Ko , using all the wiles of a woman on Sth labhadra, with her infallible glances, various charming and alluring gestures, agonising screams which touch the heart, by becoming unconscious, weeping, thus repeatedly performing many tricks and ploys, tried to attract him towards her. All of the charming and provocative gestures of Ko went waste and did not even get her at least a single side-glance of the strong-willed ascetic Sth labhadra. The more she tried to distract and bring him out of his holy path and seduce him with her actions and gestures, the more he progressed in his concentration and in achieving perfection in his meditation. She served him delicious food to eat and incited him to enjoy the sexual pleasures,
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