Jain Ramayana Part 2

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

Page 19

A Bridegroom Becomes a Mendicant
All of a sudden there arose in his heart a deep desire to attain spiritual delight by saluting the holy feet of the Muni. "Please stop the chariot a little," said Prince Vajrabahu. "Why? What's the matter ?" Udayasundar asked with evident surprise.
"You too see this! Indeed, it is a blessing of our fortune that we should see a great Muni, in this wild and secluded area."
"Where is the Muni ?" with astonishment.
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Said Udayasundar looking around
"Oh dear prince! Look there ! See that peak in the western range of the Vasantadri. The holy Muni is standing on that peak absorbed in deep meditation".
Prince Vajrabahu pointed his hand at the peak holding the hand of Udayasundar.
"Yes, indeed! You are right" said Udayasundar.
"He seems to be the veritable Kalpavriksha, the heavenly tree that grants all wishes," said Vajrabahu, with his eyes fixed on the great Muni. There surged out from his heart a spring of delight at the sight of the great Muni. Even his marriage with Manorama had not inspired in him such delight and enthusiasm. He was thrilled to the brims of his being at the sight of the holy Muni.
Udayasundar laughed aloud as he saw Vajrabahu, in that condition. He said sarcastically;
"Ah! How delighted you are at the sight of a mere Muniraj !"
"Why should I not be delighted? Why should not the ocean of joy roll in my heart at the sight of that great Muni ? Actually, the Muni has attained an extraordinary spiritual elevation. He has carried out the loftiest duty of human life by making his worldly and his other-worldly life fruitful".