________________
244
THE WAY OF LIFE
equanimity and spiritual tranquillity should be established in his mind, three things are necessary for it. These three things we can glean from the lives of Yugabahu and Madanrekha.
1. The words inspiring dharma can appeal to the heart of a man only when a person for whom he has amity, friendly affection and regard, is by his side at the time of his death and if that person encourages him to perform his last spiritual austerity.
2. The words inspiring dharma appeal to a man at the time of death only if he has enjoyed philosophical and religious discussions in his life.
3. Only if the soul is liberated, at least a little from the bondage of Karmas can a man remember in his last moments, with devotion the Paramatma. He remembers the name of the Paramatma. The name of the Paramatma does not appeal to a person when he is completely enveloped in the bondage of Karma.
THE ELEVEN EXHORTATIONS TO BE GIVEN AT THE TIME OF ONE'S DEATH TO INSPIRE IN HIM DHARMA
Madanrekha inspired her husband to perform his final adoration of dharma with a serene mind, when he was on the point of death. Every word uttered by Madanrekha touched his heart. Madanrekha also uttered profoundly moving words
(1) Be spiritually aware and cautious;
(2)
(3)
Have courage,
Do not feel sad.
(4)
(5) Think of the causes for effects.
Shun wicked actions.
(6)
(7)
Think of the effect of your Karmas.
Forgive all jivas, and seek their forgiveness.
(8) Seek the four great kinds of refuge.
(9) Remember and recite the Namaskar Mantra.
(10) Renounce the eight papasthanaks (causes for sin). (11) Meditate upon the twenty four Tirthankars.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
