Way of Life Part 4

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

Page 71

DISCOURSE 77
61
Upavas (fasting) because it cannot take a vow. It is an Avrat (one which does not undertake a vow). The jiva with one sense does not commit any sin by thought, word and deed; yet on account of the lack of Avirathi (Non-refrainment) it leads a life of futility for countless ages. Arth (wealth) is the cause for all Anarthas (calamities). The attachment for wealth is the cause for all miseries and agonies. Therefore, you should determine a limit to your attachment. You have to undertake and carry out the vow called Parigraha parimana vrata (the vow to limit attachments). You must fix some definite limits to your attachments for wealth. If you do not limit your attachments, your avarice keeps increasing endlessly. Excessive avarice drags you down into such unhappy states of existence as being born in hell (Narak)”.
After listening to the discourse of the Acharya, the wealthy shravaks who had gathered there began to undertake the parigraha parimana vrat. Some wealthy man who was haughty looked at Pethad Shah who was in dire poverty. His clothes were torn and dirty with sweat. That wealthy man said to the Acharya in a tone of mockery and ridicule, "Gurudev ! you must give the parigraha parimana vrat even to Pethad because he too is going to be a lakhier or a millionaire. May be it takes many years”. The Acharyadev said to that wealthy man, "Gentleman, you should not feel proud of your wealth. Wealth may vanish any time. Even the greatest kings and emperors become beggars and wander on the streets; and beggars become kings. You should not feel proud of anything. Pride causes great harm to man". The wealthy man who felt so proud of his wealth became silent. The Acharya said to Pethad Shah in an affectionate manner, "Noble, man you too undertake this fifth anuvrat. This vrat (vow) brings you happiness in this world and in the other world”.
PETHAD SHAH UNDERTOOK THE VOW
Pethad Shah said, "Gurudev, those who are wealthy must undertake this vow but I am absolutely poor. When there is no water at all in the lake: what is the use of putting up a bund ?”