________________
186
THE WAY OF LIFE
AN IDEAL FAMILY LIFE
Rudrasoma thought that she must not engage herself in any arguments or discussions with Somadeva because he was a great scholar and a court-priest honoured by the King. Those who are dear and near cannot be won over by means of arguments. It is not possible to reform anyone by means of quarrels. Therefore, she thought that being silent in this matter was the best way. Yes, in the family, the ordinary principles of the grihastadharma were being observed. The principles like justice, morality, noble practices, politeness, humbleness and adoration of virtues were being carefully and thoughtfully observed,
Rudrasoma gave birth to two sons by name Aryarakshit and Phalgurakshit. The parents inculcated into both the children lofty ideals and made them cultured. Somadev and Rudrasoma mutually agreed to bring up the children in the Vaidik tradition and they instilled into them the ideals and principles of Vaidik tradition. Rudrasoma agreed to act according to the wishes of Somadeva in this matter. She did not like to have a conflict with her husband, in any matter. Her husband had permitted her to live according to the principles of her faith. Rudrasoma accepted her husband's authority over the children. She maintained an atmosphere of peace and felicity in the family.
One point should not be forgotten. In this family, the husband and the wife had agreed to observe the ordinary principles of the Grihastadharma. Both were insistent upon the observance of noble practices and principles. Under such parental supervision and guidance both the children naturally obtained instruction to observe noble principles and practices. Both the father and mother were vigilant in respect of the performance of duties towards their children. Both of them believed : "After giving birth to children, if we do not think of their physical, mental and spiritual welfare, we will be more cruel than butchers". The first teachers and preceptors of children are their parents. Those children who obtain the guidance of their parents can develop a noble character,
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
