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Jahangir's relation with Spiritual Jaina Leaders
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The monk further asserted that "absolute detachment from worldly shackles is the final aim of existence. Ascetics are absorbed in the contemplation of the Supreme Spirit, and always immersed in the ocean of tranquility. Kings and Emperors cannot daunt them who are as free as fish in the sea of happiness. Their sojourn is always on the purest path and they are always intent upon the acquisition of virtues. Always obliging and always profuse in meritorious action, they are not slaves of the greed of possession, and are always courageous in taking vows. Constant search of spiritual knowledge is the passion of their lives: they are independent even of gods."16
Jahangir was very much pleased with this answer. It is also said that Noor Mahal, the beautiful Empress, also joined in the discussion and she asked some questions-" How can firmness be compatible with youth? It is impossible". Siddhicandra tried to justify his view with certain examples and said " for the purpose of spiritual upliftment age is immaterial. Some, who have resorted to asceticism in childhood, have not stood firm; but the number of elderly persons, still hot in pursuit of carnal pleasures, is not small. Hence, old age is no consideration in acquiring firmness of mind."!?
Noor Mahal, the Empress, replied-"Asceticism is meant for those who have had their fill of sensual plcasures. Those who took to asceticism before having experience of these pleasures cannot distinguish what is essential form what is not. The mind of a man, who has not enjoyed these pleasures, always hankers after them."18
The sage replied in an extremely gently and sweet tone-"At present, just the reverse of what you said, is seen to happen. In the age in which we are born, every thing is topsy-turvy. The young observe religious vows, while the old break vows which they have already taken."19
Jahangir was convinced with the argument of the monk. In spite of that Jahangir tried to convince him to marry and lead a happy
