Journey Into Jainism

Author(s): Smitpragyashreeji, Vishrutvibhashreeji
Publisher: B Jain Publishers Pvt Ltd

Page 96

The Value of Kindness
87
replete with compassion towards the animals. Puzzled, he asked the charioteer why those animals and birds were screaming and bleating in horror.
The charioteer replied, "O Lord, these animals have been brought here to be slaughtered and provide food during the feast of the marriage party." The heart of Aristnemi revolted against this type of abuse of animals. Suddenly words erupted from his mouth, "Killing of such animals for my sake! It is not for my welfare. What, what, can possibly be the reason for this senseless killing of animals? It is inexcusable and absolutely absurd." He ordered his charioteer to turn the chariot back. The charioteer could not understand what the order was for and looked at Aristnemi. Aristnemi demanded, "Why aren't you moving? Turn back at once."
"But Lord, thousands of people are awaiting your arrival. How can I turn back? The marriage party will be without the bridegroom," said the charioteer politely.
"Whose marriage party? Whose marriage? I refuse to go forth with this nonsense. Take me to Sauriyapur as soon as possible," ordered Aristnemi to the charioteer.
The charioteer, following his orders, turned the chariot back and headed for Sauriyapur. The people of Mathura and the members of the marriage party were puzzled. No one figured out the reason why Aristnemi had changed his mind. Not even a single person was able to decipher the overpowering feelings of nonviolence in Aristnemi's heart.
Shreekrishna, Samudravijay, and Ugrasen rushed to