Way of Life Part 3

Author(s): Bhadraguptasuri
Publisher: Vishvakalyan Prakashan Trust Mehsana

Page 211

DISCOURSE 63
199
GENEROSITY AND SELFLESSNESS NECESSARY TO WIN AFFECTION
Bhadramatha did not retain a single blanket-piece for herself. She gave away all the pieces to her daughters-in-law. She did so because she was generous and free from desires. How did Bhadramatha who was generous and free from desires, win the affection and respect of her daughters-in-law ? I think you too desire the affection and respect of your sons and daughters-in-law. How can you get their affection and respect?
In addition to generosity and selflessness, you must also have a genuine concern for the spiritual welfare of your children. Yes. You must think of the spiritual welfare of your children. Rudrasoma who possessed the virtues of dignity, generosity and a spiritual vision also thought of the spiritual welfare of her children. Her situation was not congenial for her. The priest, Somadeva was a follower of the Vaidik dharma. She wanted to give spiritual guidance to her children without displeasing her husband. She was a follower of the Jain dharma. In such a situation, we have to act with great self-restraint and patience.
- Aryarakshit was about to return to Dashpur after having attained an absolute mastery over the Vedas. The court-priest, Somadev gave this information to King Udayan. The King decided to extend a grand reception to Aryarakshit. He arrived at Dashpur; and was waiting outside the city. In the morning, the King sat on his chief-elephant; and set out accompanied by thousands of citizens to welcome Aryarakshit. Aryarakshit first saluted the feet of his father; and then saluted the feet of the King. The King embraced Aryarakshit. He made him sit on his elephant; and entered the city with all eclat and grandeur.
WHY DID SHE NOT BLESS HER SON WHO WAS A GREAT SCHOLAR?
Aryarakshit saw his father; he also met his brother and sister; but he did not meet his mother. At every square in the city, there were some hundred women. He looked for his mother;