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128
Journey into Jainism
Somewhat confounded, Thaav-aacha Putta asked his mother, “Is there any way to escape the cycle of birth and death?"
"There is,” his mother admitted, “but it is a very difficult and severe course of life. The only path to spiritual liberation is to perform Sadhana at the feet of Lord Aristnemi, the 22nd Tirthankar of the Jain tradition. But it is a life-long process, my son.”
"Mother, where does Lord Aristnemi live now? Will he come to our village soon?"
“Yes, he will, my son, and if you wish you may meet him then.”
Thaavaacha Putta had decided to adopt the life of renunciation and penance to liberate his soul and so escape the cycle of life and death. From that day on, a detachment toward worldly things filled his mind and occupied his soul: When Lord Aristnemi came to his town, he was initiated into the monastic Order and ultimately proceeded on the path to enlightment and emancipation.
-asse
