Lilavaikaha

Author(s): K R Chandra, Ramniklal M Shah
Publisher: Prakrit Text Society Ahmedabad

Page 12

50 per cubic foot as labour charge, but subsequently it amounted to Rs. 200 per cubic foot. But Kasturbhai's aesthetic sense was so satiated by their wonderful craftsmanship that he did not mind the extra expenditure. In the Shatrunjay temples, he got the old entrance replaced by a new one and caused the cluster of small shrines along with idols, which obstructed the main view, removed.
Just as horizons of life widen as soon as true spirit of religion dawns, so also horizons of sacred places widen with the renovation of those places. Once an American visitor asked Kasturbhai : “If you were to meet death tomorrow .......!", "I shall be too happy” Kasturbhai quickly replied with a smile, "But what would happen then ?” “I don't care for it.” “Don't you think as to what would happen to you ?” “I have firm faith in rebirth”. “What is it ?” “According to Jaina Philosophy, there is no existence of God as such. All persons including myself are able to attain the position of God. In other words, I should lift my character to such a height that I should feel confident that I have been gradually preparing for that position. I have full faith in this line of thought. I am proud of it”. “How can you reach that stage ?! “Our systems of Philosophy have enumerated certain ways and means as follows : speak the truth; do not be obsessed by wealtb; do not do violence to anyone; and so on. You would hardly find such lofty ideals in any other religion.”
“What is Jainism ?”
“In fact, Jainism is not a religion; it is a life-style, an art of living; by its practice a person can attain exalted spiritual level in this very life.”
"Is it true that Jainism preaches against the acu quisition of wealth 9"
“No, It preaches not to accumulate wealth beyond a specific limit."
“Have you taken a vow to that effect ?" “No. But it is my practice to spend a portion of it in charity.”