Jain Legend Vol 2

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

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In course of time, the J ambhaka Devas resolved to test Vajra Monk once again. On a summer afternoon, under the scorching heat of the sun, Vajra monk was onbegging round (seeking food). J ambhaka Devas considering that it was the right time to test him, with the celestial power, disguised themselves as perfect householders, and created a house with their magical power. Then they called Vajra monk from within the house and urged him to accept their alms. Vajra monk ente alms. The disguised J ambhaka Devas offered him a plate filled with sweetmeats (phynia). Looking at the phynia in summer, a dish which is normally prepared in winter, Vajra monk minutely scrutinised the offered food, the donor, etc and refused the food saying that it belongs to gods. Appeased with his pious conduct and strong adherence to the principles and his analysis of the food that is being offered to him, they granted him the spell to fly through the air ( k agamana Vidy ). In the chapter of Mahapar j in va yaka Niryukti, it is mentioned that Vajra Monk was blessed with the k agamana Vidy .
From his childhood, rya Vajra had passion for knowledge and was service-oriented. Within a short period of time, he won the hearts of his Guru and fellow-monk with his rare combination of attributes like tranquility, power of endurance, tenacity, humility and his power of remembering what he once heard. He learnt canonical scriptures from his revered teacher, thoroughly understood their meaning and assimilated the essence in his heart.
Charisma and humility of rya Vajra
The very next day after the aforesaid incident, rya Simhagiri went towards forest to attend the nature's call, and the rest of the monks also went out to seek alms and on their respective duties. When Monk Vajra discovered that he was all alone, the childish nimbleness manifested in him. He arranged the clothes of all the monks in a circle and sitting in the middle, started reciting and explaining the meaning of the canons and the Prvas. Slowly he got engrossed in it, and with fluency, continued his recital and explanation one after the other in an august tone. Mean while
rya Simhagiri returned to the dwelling. Recognising the voice of rya Vajra, he hid himself behind the door and listened to him. Listening to his explanations so explicit and breath-taking from a boy of a playful age, rya Simhagiri was overwhelmed by ecstasy. He felt such elation that he instantly expressed to himself his feelings and emotions in the
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