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JAIN RAMAYAN
and faith from arising in his mind. Moreover, such a man falls to achieve perfection even in his spiritual endeavours.
Probably she thought thus, “The power and position that we attain as rulers of kingdoms .... The progress and prosperity that we attain are all the result of the supreme grace of the Paramatha. It is by his grace that we attain position, power, prosperity and happiness. Therefore, we should renounce all things and dedicate them at the feet of the Paramatma". As a result of this kind of thinking eventhough she was a great queen she lived a life of self-sacrifice, benevolence and spiritual excellence. She was completely bathed in the cublime waters of devotion for the Paramatma. Every morning and evening regularly as a matter of essential duty she worshipped the Paramatma.
The queen invited famous musicians and singers of devotional songs and hymns; and when they sang songs and hymns at the appropriate times in the temple she became immersed in devotion and meditation. Gradually, a large number of other women also joined her in these austerities. King Kanakarath also whole-heartedly praised and admired Queen Lakshmivati's devotion for the Paramatma and provided to her all the conveniences necessary for her spiritual austerities and activities.
Within a short time, Queen Lakshmivati's palace became an abode of devotees. In the whole city, Lakshmivati was reputed not as the queen of the country but as a great Shravika. Everywhere in the city people admired her extraordinary piety and
1. Any person in distress who came to her doors did not return empty-handed or disappointed; neither did those who came seeking help from her return disappointed. She helped everyone and extended proper hospitality to her guests with a happy mind and with equanimity and she also inspired in them devotion for the Paramatma. Queen Lakshmivati's fame and popularity easily inspired jealousy and hostility in the hearts of some people.
Queen Kanakodari could not tolerate Lakshmivati's fame and name. Queen Lakshmivati's devotion for the Paramatma and
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