Page 39 - EJO0055

Chandanbala’s mother’s example :

What happened in Chandanbala’s mother’s case ? The soldier
was taking her by the forest path and while walking he said,
“Do not worry. Though your husband is no more, you are
not alone. I will make you my wife.” Hearing this, the great
Dharini crushed her tongue and committed suicide. The soldier
was left astonished and scared.

Now, the question here is –

Just for the sake of protecting your character, why to give
away your body which can be the cause of many religious
deeds in future ?

Q. Is it appropriate to deliberately destroy this precious
human life ? If you do not commit suicide and stay alive,
there is a great chance for numerous religious deeds and
development of virtues right upto renounciation.

A. This calculation is wrong. Because, if you destroy the
foundation of religion-character for saving your life, then
you actually destroy your religious outlook. ‘Let character
be affected, atleast my life is saved’ – such a mental state
gives importance to life which is after all material and
ignores character which is spiritually impactful. It puts
character at a second step.

Howmuchever religion you exercise after ignoring character
once; ultimately religion will always stay at second priority
in life.

This is because though you saved your life for future religious
activities, but as present you gave importance to life ignoring
character. Hence, your mental state will be developed in such
a way. ‘‘Life is more precious than religion. Religion and
character occupy a secondary position.” Such a mental state
is harmful in the long run.”
5. Religion and Character 29