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DISCOURSE 17
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this world, there are this kind of people in large numbers. They are in sorrow and still they do not discard sinful actions. They deserve compassion. We should not hate even such people. I shall describe an incident relating to the emotion of compassion, in the life of Shraman Bhagwan Mahavir.
BHAGVAN MAHAVIR AND SANGAM DEV
When Bhagwan Mahavir was in the phase of making spiri. tual endeavours, he wandered from place to place; and through cities and forests. He overcame many impediments and obstacles, with a tremendous heroism. At that time, Indra, the King of gods, heartily praised Mahavir's extraordinary virtues in his court. "The will-power of Mahavir is firm and unshakeable like the Meru mountain. No one, neither a god nor a demon can disturb his spiritual equanimity and emotional stability. Blessed are the determination, courage and heroism of Bhagwan Mahavir". On hearing this, the esteem of all the gods for the Bhagwan Mahavir and their faith in him increased a thousandfold. But one god thought thus : "Indra is a devotee of Mahavir; that is why he praises him so greatly. Mahavir is after all, a man and a mortal. The powers of a man are nothing when compared to those of a god. Whatever may be the strength and abilities of a man, a god can shake them and break them. I will go and disturb and break Mahavir's equanimity and determination. I will break his determination and will-power".
NEVER PRAISE ANYONE IN THE PRESENCE OF THOSE WHO HATE VIRTUES
All cannot bear to hear the others praised. Only those who admire virtues can hear the praise of others. Those who hate jivas and virtues grow angry when they hear others praised. Not only that; they also try to pull down those who are men of virtues and ethical excellence from their high pedestal of honour. Therefore, while praising others we should take one precaution. We should not praise anyone in the presence of those who hate Jivas and virtues. Those people, of course, feel happy only when we deprecate others.
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