Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra Part 1

Author(s): Hemchandracharya, Helen M Johnson
Publisher: Oriental Research Institute Vadodra

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passing of the rains. Her gait, slow by nature, became slower, like that of an elephant that has reached the rutting-condition. At that time her wealth of beauty increased greatly, like the knowledge of a learned man at dawn ; 141 like the bank of the ocean in the hot season. Even though she was carrying the embryo, the sole essence of the three worlds in her womb, she did not become wearied. This is the power of the Arhats while they are in the embryo-stage. Gradually, gradually, in the womb of Marudeva, the embryo grew secretly like a bulb in the ground. By his power the Mistress became especially compassionate toward all. Water, even though cold, may become colder from snow thrown into it. By the power of the Blessed One having descended into her womb, Nābhi was honored more than his father by all the twins. From his power the kalpa-trees became especially efficacious, just as the moonbeams in the autumn become especially beautiful. By his power the earth had the hostility of men and animals appeased. For always the burning heat is allayed at the coming of the rain.
When nine months, seven and one half days had passed, at midnight on the eighth of the black fortnight of Caitra, the planets being in exaltation, the moon being in conjunction with Uttarāsādhā, the Lady gave an easy birth to a son, a twin. The skies became bright then as if from happiness; the people devoted themselves to sport with great joy, like gods. He looked like a god that had appeared on the couch of spontaneous birth, free from stains, afterbirth, blood, etc. Then there was a light in the three worlds, like lightning, causing surprise to the eyes of the world, destroying darkness. Though unbeaten by servants, the drum having the deep sound of clouds resounded aloud in the sky from joy, like Heaven itself. Even the hell-inhabitants, who had never before attained
141 257. It is customary for students and teachers in Indian schools (old style) to rise very early, about 4:00 a.in.