Book Title: 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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of renunciation from Swm and try to attain the ultimate reality - salvation / liberation. Please permit me to take the initiation."
When they heard that their one and only beloved son wants to renounce and remain a celibate all life, both abhadatta and Dh ri were astounded as if a thunderbolt fell on them and they became unconscious for sometime. When they regained consciousness, with tears rolling down their cheeks, they uttered these words in a pitiable tone, “Beloved Son! You are the only one to fulfill our soul's desires. Without you our life will become impossible. You listened to the sermons of Sw m Sudharm as propounded by Lord; this is indeed a virtuous deed. Our ancestors were also staunch followers and devotees of Jainism; however we never heard any one of them ever sought initiation. All of a sudden what remarkable event occurred today, which inspired you to take this decision?”
Jamb Kum ra: "Reverend parents! There are many people in the world who after passage of a long time realise their duties, while there are others who are quick in arriving at a decision. Giving an example Jamb Kum ra told the parable of the son of a wealthy and distinguished merchant ( re hiputra)”.
After narrating the parable Jamb Kum ra told, "Just as that Merchant's son received the essence and led a blissful life for a long time; similarly I too chose the much treasured essence (monk hood) from the sermons of Sw m and desire to acquire infinite, immortal salvation of the soul. Hence please allow me to take up the path of renunciation and help me achieve my aspiration.”
The way Jamb Kum ra presented the facts, citing meaningful examples, his parents realised, given any circumstances Jamb Kum ra would not remain a householder. Despite the realisation, out of immense affection towards their son, they entreated him to lead the life of a householder for some more time, “Dear son, for the time being you forsake the thought of renunciation. The next time when rya Sudharm Sw m visits this place, then you definitely take initiation from him”.