________________
109
DISCOURSE 80 There was no place at all for Dharma in his life. His friends and relatives did not like even to look at his face.
On account of some punya (merit) he had a little good fortune still left. A friend of his father's who had been abroad happened to come to that town. He saw the condition of his friend's son. He heard the entire story from the young man's wife. Then, he advised the young man to give up his evil ways and to pursue the right path. He gave him some financial assistance and showed him the path of Dharma. The family which was falling into ruin was saved. What would have happened if that noble man had not given him advice and assistance ? Some people may get advice and assistance but they do not care for that advice. There are people in this world who even after being ruined do not give up their evil ways and do not pursue the path of righteousness. They are totally ruined by their evil addictions.
Therefore, the author says that human beings must pursue the three purusharthas in such a manner that no one of them is affected or neglected; and in such a way that the soul may not incur loss in this world or in the other world. Men can carry out their endeavours relating to Dharma, Artha and Kama in a balanced and harmonious manner only if their intellects are wholesome.
We shall think of some more vital aspects of this subject later.
This is enough for to-day.
.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org