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472
JAIN RAMAYAN
fore, nobody can be really happy until his Karmas are fully destroyed. Therefore, I have decided to adopt the path of Sadhudharma."
Vibhishan and Sugriv stood stupefied by the words of Shri Ram. This was the first time, that they were visiting Shri Ram after Lakshman's funeral and now they heard Shri Ram declare his determination to pursue the path of Charitradharma. They fell into deep thought.
"I too have decided to receive the Deeksha along with my revered brother". Shatrughna said looking towards Vibhishan.
"What do you say? You too ?"
“Yes. I have decided to remain at the feet of Shri Ram and to carry out spiritual austerities". Shatrughna said enthusiastically.
Vibhishan looked towards Sugriv. His eyes were full of anguish. Conflicting thoughts and feelings were discerible in his eyes. Looking towards Shri Ram, he said in a voice of anguish, "O you treasure-house of benevolence. I fully approve of your sublime decision but I feel rather agitated.”
"What is the cause for your agitation ?"
“Dear lord ! I feel agitated when I think of the citizens of Ayodhya. How many calamities they had to experience within a short time! The empire of Ayodhya honours you and adores you not only as its emperor but as its only prop and support. The people had inordinate devotion for Lakshman but he passed away. Lav and Kush have gone away seeking their spiritual perfection and now you and Shatrughna are determined to renounce the samsar and to make the final exit from it. The people of the Kingdom will be greatly anguished by the separation from you all. I shudder to think of their anguish.” Sugriv's eyes welled up with tears. His voice was choked with emotion. His face was filled with anguish.
"Dear Sugriv, unions and separations are natural in samsar. Those who experience delight in union, are anguished by
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