________________
What An Adoration of Virtues !
95
weak and sick. There appeared a tremendous agony in his body also. Famous physicians treated him but though he was given the best medical treatment his physical agony did not decrease.
The Ministers were greatly perturbed and agitated. Eminent physicians were invited from distant places; but all in vain ! No physician could cure him of his mental and physical maladies. No treatment could reduce the terrific agony that raged in his body and mind.
Queen Simhika did not know that the king was suffering from such a malady. She could not get any news of his physical condition because she had turned her face away from the external world and was totally absorbed in a contemplation on the inner world. On account of the king's suspicion regarding her character she had developed a strong feeling of renunciation. She was totally detached from this world and was immersed in a profound contemplation on the meditation of the Paramatma. But when once Nayana happened to go out of the palace she came to know of the king's illness. At first, the queen could not believe the news when she heard it from Nayana but she found out that it was true by getting definite information through Nayana. Nayana said this describing the condition of the King; "Dear Queen, the condition of the king is growing more and more serious causing anxiety to all of us. Many physicians and magicians are attending upon him. Many kinds of medicines and treatments are being given to him but all in vain. No treatment has relieved him of his agony. His physical agony and his mental anguish have been growing more and more serious. All are greatly perturbed and anxious”.
Simhika heard the words of Nayana silently and calmly. Then for a few moments she thought about it and then closing her eyes she became absorbed in a meditation on the Paramatma. She began thinking, "Should I go to the King now? Will my visit to him bring him any peace or happiness? If I visit him my presence may increase his anguish and agony instead of reducing it.” Then the voice of her conscience said, “Simhika ! This is the time for you to visit the King. You must go to him.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
