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394
JAIN RAMAYAN
Shri Ram gave a signal. Lakshman released Simhodhar. The cries of victory issued by the warriors and solidiers reverberated in the skies. Vajrakarna took the dust of Shri Ram's feet, wore it on his head and said : ,
"Gurudev! I have received a vow from the great muni Prithivardhan that I shall not bow to anyone except Lord Arihant and munis. Therefore kindly secure Simhodhar's c sent to permit me to carry out by Dharma.”
Shri Ram glanced towards Simhodhar. Simhodhar at once gave his consent. The two embraced each other.
“Dear Vajrakarna; I never knew that you had taken such a vow and that you were not bowing to me on that account but I thought that you were not bowing to me out of pride. In fact you deserve commendation. You were ready to sacrifice anything to safeguard your vow. But I forgot myself; I lost my way and I have fallen in my own estimate. I would have been totally ruined but fortunately Shri Ram has come here and he saved me from committing a great sin. He has saved me from committing an enormity. Really, he has bestowed a great benefaction upon me and you are my brother: Kindly pardon me!”
In the presence of Shri Ramachandra Simhodhar gave Vajrakarna half his kingdom as a gift. While accepting the gift Vajrakarna remembered the thief Vidyutang a fello of his faith. Vidyutang had played a very important role in this affair. Vajrakarna looked towards Simhodhar and was silent.
"Brother what do you want to say ?" “My Lord! I have a desire.”
"Tell me what it is! I am prepared to grant whatever you wish for”.
"I want queen Sridhara's ear-rings.”
"Ear-rings? You want the queen's ear-rings ?" Simhodhar's eyes widened with amazement.
“Yes, my king!"
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