Jain Legend Vol 4

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

Page 82

Krtika shook Devabhadr c rya emotionally. He firmly decided to appoint a worthy monk as Pontiff, one who can glorify the Jina order like Jinavallabha S ri.
“Who is there in our gaccha, who is both worthy and brilliant, who can bring honour to the post hitherto held by Jinavallaba S ri and moreover competently increase the influence of Jina order?” Contemplating on these questions, Devabhadr c rya at once remembered monk Somacandra. Mentally assessing the pros and cons regarding his choice of priority, he felt sure that he has all the qualities which an influencial charismatic c rya should possess. He is a good orator, scholar, totally fearless and outspoken. He is gifted with the amazing ability to improve the congregation's proliferation in all conditions, whether favourable or unfavourable. He is virtuous, brilliant, majestic and intelligent. His heart is soft like fresh butter and his mind is strong like vajra weapon. He is, in all aspects perfect to be appointed as successor of Jine vara S ri'.
Devabhadr c rya consulted with four fold congregation and sent a message to Somacandra asking him to reach Cittauda, so that he could be appointed as successor-Pontiff of Jinavallabha S ri; what's more even Jinavallabha S ri also wished the same.
Devabhadr c rya arrived at Cittauda along with the train of disciples and ascetics, and laity of gaccha of Varddham na S ri. The four-fold congregation made all necessary arrangements for the ceremony.
One day Devabhadr c rya in solitude said to monk Somacandra, “You will be appointed as successor-Pontiff on a specific day”.
Pamạita Somacandra S ri replied, “Whatever you say is okay. However the auspicious time chosen by you will prove inauspicious for me and I will not enjoy longevity of life (Ciramj v). The best auspicious time falls on Saturday, 6 days after the muh rta fixed by you. If I am made Pontiff on this day, wherever I travel, followers of our gaccha, monks, female - monks, votaries and laity will increase to an unprecedented number. Our four-fold congregation will become preeminent and far-reaching."
Acceding to his belief about the auspicious time, monk Somacandra was appointed to the Sri post held by Jinavallabha S ri, on Saturday, the
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