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43. Quelling Anger, Pride, Deceit and Greed
Shrimad's
had's soul mate, Sobhagbhai's forbearance and faith were being tested by the severe financial crisis he was experiencing. After his father's death, he became responsible for supporting the family, and his financial situation had deteriorated further. He turned to Shrimad to help him by using his knowledge of astrology, mantras, or any other such means.
Shrimad wrote to him: "If you and I conduct ourselves with a worldly perspective, then who will behave spiritually?"
He then added' "A wise self-realised person would not wish to give material benefits to a seeker of truth. He would not use his spiritual wealth to do what is wrong."
In this way, Shrimad helped Sobhagbhai keep his thoughts pure in the midst of great difficulties. While he did possess certain powers, Shrimad was not interested in using them. They were nothing when compared to the wonder of the Soul.
Whenever they met, and in his letters, Shrimad imparted much knowledge to Sobhagbhai, which helped his spiritual progress. The more faith he had in Shrimad, the more he freed himself from delusion.
Shrimad's visits and letters also helped Sobhagbhai's friend Dungershibhai.
When Shrimad visited Sayla, it was a day of celebration for Sobhagbhai. He would go all the way to Muli station with a horse drawn carriage to receive Shrimad, and in Sayla, Sobhagbhai would roll out a red carpet welcoming Shrimad.
Sobhagbhai's wife Ratanba followed Jain traditions. Once when she was going out, he asked her where she was going. She told him that she was going to practice Samayik (48 minutes of equanimity and study). Shrimad suggested she go to a mosque and do it.
Shrimad wanted to show her that true religion lies far away from religious prejudice and obstinacy and is in quelling the passions of anger, pride, deceit and greed.
