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15
GLIMPSES ALONG LIFE'S JOURNEY
bering that his good fortune was due to the effect of the practising of dharma, went to worship the Tirthamkaras in the Temples of the devaloka (heavens). Thence he returned and settled down to the deva-life which is like one continuous feast of pleasure.
There is nothing of labour or industry known in the abodes of devas. They do not have to sweat themselves for their livelihood. The food that their ethereal bodies need is not like that of the mortals. In the lower heavens it is taken once in a thousand years. The quantity, too, is what would barely suffice the gluttony of a sparrow on the earth. Amongst the many wonders of the deva-life is the fact that the devas of the lowest heavens breathe but once in a fortnight. In the higher heavens the interval between meals and breaths increases proportionately.
Fun and frolic characterise the life of those who find themselves so placed as to have nothing whatsoever to do. There is not even public work to be done in the heavens, as there are no needy folk there.. The troubles are only mentaljealousy at the greater brilliance and beauty of another deva, and the like. But no one can alleviate such suffering.
In the lower heavens both the sexes are represented; though the deva-ladies do not
