Jain Ramayana Part 3

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

Page 463

The Nirvan of Lav and Kush
ment for something that should be discarded and despises something which is beneficial. We should light the lamp of spiritual knowledge which alone can dispel the darkness of ignorance and brighten our souls", Kush heard all this silently. The words of Lav sounded pleasant and agreeable to him. Every word uttered by Lav seemed to be emerging from the depths of his consciousness. They were not merely words or sentences spoken out mechanically but rays of radiance that could awaken a spirit of renunciation in the listener. Nothing could impede the path chosen by the two brothers. Of course, Lav and Kush were married. They had Queens in their harem but they began to feel that wives family and relatives were but illusory images seen in a dream. They could not be impediments on their path; nor could they shake their determination. In this manner, the third night also passed.
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Shri Ram did not take food or drink; did not take a bath; did not carry out any routine spiritual activity. He continued to keep holding Lakshman's body. Kausalya and the others were greatly worried. Vibhishan, Sugriv and the other friends of Shri Ram were agitated. One question kept arising in their minds, "What shall we do? How can we console Shri Ram ? How can we make him realise the truth ?"
Vibhishan and Sugriv experienced boundless worry. They had a great responsibility on their shoulders. They had an extraordinary attachment and love for Shri Ram. That attachment had continued through countless janmas. They also knew very well how Shri Ram continued to lament over the disaster that occurred to Lakshman in the war when Ravan released the divine weapon called Amogavijaya which rendered Lakshman unconscious. At that time Lakshman came back to life on account of Vishalya, who came there in time. In fact, Shri Ram had decided to enter fire along with Lakshman. So, they were worried that Shri Ram might commit some such unpleasant action. A man who is enslaved by attachments would not hesitate to do anything. At once, Lav and Kush went into the palace. They prostrated before him with filial devotion and sat near him. A few moments passed thus. There was silence in the Chamber. After a while, Lav said in a humble voice;