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Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra
www.kobatirth.org
Acharya Shri Kailassagarsuri Gyanmandir
Delving far back into his memory, he recalled how, in a previous lifetime as the nobleman Triprustha, he had once acted cruelly toward a guard in his employment who had neglected his duties to keep a careful watch. On that occasion Triprustha had given in to a great rage and poured molten lead into the ears of his negligent guard. Now, Mahavira realized, he was experiencing the reaction for that act of cruelty. So he patiently bore the pain in silence.
The next day he left that place and walked on until he reached a small town, where he begged alms at a merchant's house. In the house was a physician friend of the merchant's. Although Mahavira made no complaint, the doctor could tell something was ailing him. Upon examining him the physician discovered the tips of the roots that were buried in his ears. The two were astonished at the forbearance of the saint, who must have been in great pain, though he seemed so peaceful. Saying nothing to Mahavira, they decided they must help him. They went off to find some helpers, and to gather medicines and a strong set of pincers.
Meanwhile Mahavira, keeping silent, left the town to meditate in the nearby forest. Soon the two friends and their helpers came in search of him. They found him standing beneath a tree, deep in meditation. Gently they sat him down and the physician massaged him with oil to make him relaxed. While strong hands held him firmly, with the help of the pincers the pegs were removed from his ears. As they were pulled out the pain was very great, and Mahavira involuntarily let out a piercing scream, the first sound he had uttered since taking his vow of silence. The terrible sound vibrated through the sky and made the forest and surrounding hills tremble. Blood poured forth, but healing hands quickly staunched it, and treated his damaged ears with ointment and soft cotton wool. When all was done the merchant and his physician friend begged forgiveness for the pain they had caused to the saint. They bowed before him and returned home.
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Strong hands held him firmly while the pegs were removed, and his damaged ears were treated with ointment and soft cotton woul
