________________
DISCOURSE 62
185
ways. Rudrasoma had mastered the nine doctrines and the Nayavad of the Jain dharma. At the same time, she was soft and sweet of speech. She spoke pleasantly; and there was softness in her speech. There was never even a trace of harshness or cruelty in her words. This is the master-key to the attainment of fruitfulness and fulfilment in life. Let amity and cordiality rain through your words. Others may speak to you harshly, angrily or bitterly; but you always speak sweetly and amiably. Success will be surely yours. Rudrasoma had won the heart of her husband by the sweetness of her utterances. She was carrying on her family-life in accordance with her husband's likes and dislikes. Of course, Somadev thought that Rudrasoma was an atheist and an ignorant woman; but he was not aggressive in respect of his idelogical difference; and he knew that Rudrasoma had a staunch faith in the Jain Dharma and so he never engaged himself with her in the arguments which might bring about tensions or misunderstandings. That was Somadeva's loftiness or dignity. Though he had authority over his wife, he never compelled her to conform to the principles of the Vaidik dharma. He did not object to her following the principles of the Jain dharma. Rudrasoma also was a lofty and noble woman, so she never did anything that might cause distress or pain to her husband.
From the Audience : Is it not the duty of a wife to lead her husband on the path of righteousness or dharma ?
Maharajashri : One must possess ability and farsightedness to inculcate the Samyagdharma (the righteous way) in others. There too, one should be very careful when there is close relationship. Haste may cause waste. Hurry may cause worry. Rudrasoma had carefully and closely studied the nature and propensities of Somadeva. She had studied the circumstances; and was waiting for the right opportunity. She had this idea in her mind : "My husband and the other members of my family should develop faith in the Jain dharma;" but every desire is not fulfilled; you see ! Desires may be fulfilled but it will take time. If the malady is deep-rooted, it takes time to cure it.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
