Jain Ramayana Part 1

Author(s): Bhadraguptasuri
Publisher: Vishvakalyan Prakashan Trust Mehsana

Page 53

The Birth of Ravan
41
his fancies opened and they began to range freely, impetuously to the ends of the universe. There arose in his mind the overleaping ambition of attaining extraordinary materialistic prosperity and pleasures. There arose in the ocean of his heart a mighty commotion of the clashing waves of countless desires and ambitions. Once, he revealed his ambitions and desires to his teacher, Kulachandra.
"Dear child! In order to conquer the whole world, physical strength, materialistic prosperity and exceptional valour are not the only necessary things; on the contrary, you must acquire mastery over certain arts and techniques. As long as you do not acquire mastery over them, all the other things are useless". Kulachandra said this restraining the Prince's overweening ambition.
"Revered Gurudev! What should I do in order to attain mastery over those arts and skills ?”
"Dear child! In order to attain mastery over such arts, techniques and Mantras and supernatural powers, you must discipline your bodily propensities and restrain your sensuals cravings. This is absolutely essential".
"I am perfectly ready to do so. You kindly guide me to pursue the path that leads to the attainment of my ambitions”. Ratnashrava said in a tone of eagerness, placing his forehead on the feet of his teacher.
Kulachandra said this by way of giving him the necessary guidance.
*** You must find a place of absolute solitude to carry out meditation.
*You need the prescribed asanas and mudras (the right postures) in order to attain physical firmness and discipline.
*You must learn to recite the mantras clearly. :*You must get a true knowledge of the objectives which you propose to achieve".