________________
He had the good luck of coming in contact with Śruta Kévalin Yaśobhadra Swami in comparison with the extensive and deep knowledge of śruta Kévalin Yaśobhadra Swāmi, the knowledge of Bhadra-bāhu Swāmī, seemed trifling like an article made of tin, in the presence of an article made of real gold. Gradually Bhadra-bāhu Swāmi knew the real essence of True Religion.
Bhadra-bāhu Swāmi had his dikşā at the pious hands of Śruta Kévalin Yaśobhadra Swāmi. Owing to his extra-ordinary abilities he was able to master the Fourteen Pūrvas. He also became very competent in astronomy and astrology.
Ācārya Bhadra-bāhu Swami had a brother named Varahamihira etrefafer. Varāla-mihira had, also, taken Bhāgavati Dikşā. On seeing that Bhadra-bāhu Swami was made an Ācārya and the Head of the Jaina Sangha by the Guru, on account of his extensive knowledge and superior natural powers, Varāha-mihira became enraged and having left off ascetic life, he began to maintain himself by fore-telling omens, preparing horoscopes etc, as he possessed sufficient knowledge of astronomy. But his hatred towards Jaina Sadhūs increased with his popularity, and he formed the evil habit of slandering Jaina Sadhūs and everything relating to the Jaina Dharma. Varāha-mihira practised a number of tricks with the object of spreading his own influence. The public believed in his fore-fellings and his fame spread in various directions. In course of time, Varāha-mihira received the respectful distinction of appointment as tragitea Rajya Purohitia.-Royal Chaplain-in the court of Nanda Rājā, and along with it, his animosity towards Jaina Religion went on increasing.
Nanda Rajā had a son born after a long time. Varāha mihira prepared a horoscope for the newly-born child and estimated the child's age so be one hundred years. The king was greatly pleased. A large number of persons came to the
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org