Page 110 - EJO0055
P. 110
King Shrenik was not a Jain and inspite of this Chellana
agreed to marry him because of his courage and valour. What
is the value of beauty without courage ?
Great women maintained purity of character even in adverse
times only because of their courage.
Damayanti’s example :
Damayanti had to leave the kingdom and roam in the forests
with king Nal but she was fearless. Her husband told her, “I
am facing tough days wherein I have to roam about shelterless
in the forest. You are delicate and accompanying me like this
is not your cup of tea. Hence, it is better to go and stay at
your father’s house till my bad days are over.” Delicate but
daring Damyanti flatly refused. She said, “The shadow always
accompanies the tree. Likewise I will not leave your side.
Whatever be the situation I am happy with you.”
This is all an impact of courage. In the morning when Sita
woke up she realized that her husband Nal had left her alone
hoping that finding herself alone she would seek shelter at
her father’s house. Damayanti immediately decided to accept
4 vows to protect her chastity till she met her husband.
(1) She left all 6 Vigais.*
(2) She decided not to sleep on bed.
(3) She decided not to wear colourful clothes.
(4) She left Shringar.*
How did she manage to do this ? Only because of her courage.
Eventually, she found a lonely cave near a nearby hermitage
and she stayed there and worshipped Lord Shantinath
* Vigai – Milk, curd, ghee, sugar, oil and fried items are the 6 Vigais
which are forbidden in Ayambil Tapa.
* Shringar – To look beautiful by dressing yourself and wearing
ornaments
100 Purity Purified