________________
In the spiritual refuge of the Kevaljnani
379
number of people around him and birds flying in the sky. No one said anything. All were looking towards Shri Ram in utter stupefaction. All were shedding tears. They were all filled with anguish. There appeared anger on Shri Ram's face. He suddenly cried out in anger,
"O you Vidyadhars! O you men! O you birds! If you love your lives, at once show me my dear Sita; otherwise this will be the last day of your lives. Sita might have pulled off her hair; that does not matter. Where is she? Tell me at once."
No one said anything. All were silent. Who could say anything ? Shri Ram angrily looked around. Lakshman was sitting nearby with his eyes fixed on the ground and with his head bowed in deep grief. The tears were streaming from his eyes. Holding Lakshman's hand Shri Ram said in a voice stricken with grief;
“Dear Lakshman! At once, bring my bow and arrows. Bring my quiver which contains my ferocious arrows. I will set off in search of Sita. Why are all these people in such grief and desperation ? When my sorrow is boundless, they do not seem to realise my feelings. But I do not mind it.” At once, Shri Ram took up his bow and arrows.
Lakshman could not restrain his sorrow when he saw Shri Ram's condition. He bathed Shri Ram's feet with his tears; and held Shri Ram's feet sobbing. A few moments passed thus. Then he said in a tone of detachment.
"Revered brother! What are you going to do ? All those who have gathered here are your humble servants. They are ready to carry out your commands and you are asking them for the whereabouts of Sita. But please do not forget this truth. Just as you abandoned Sita, inspite of knowing that she was absolutely innocent, pure and sublime, she too out of her concern for her spiritual welfare, has renounced the worldly life. She has discarded all worldly pleasures and enjoyments. She pulled off her hair in your presence and received the Deeksha
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
