Anand Shravak

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Anand Shravak" in English, based on the provided pages:

The story of Anand Shravak highlights the spiritual journey and virtuous qualities of a prominent lay follower (Shravak) during the time of Lord Mahavir.

Anand, a wealthy and respected householder in the city of Vänijya, possessed immense riches, including gold coins, cash, business investments, jewelry, and a large herd of cows. His prosperity was matched by his respectability among both the king and the populace.

Upon hearing Lord Mahavir's sermon, Anand embraced Jainism by accepting the twelve vows of a householder. He diligently observed these vows for fourteen years, leading to significant spiritual progress. This spiritual discipline culminated in Anand attaining a rare and powerful spiritual ability known as Avadhi-jnän (clairvoyance), which allowed him to perceive events from the first heaven to the first hell. His Avadhi-jnän was described as being more pure and potent than what other laypeople typically achieve.

One day, Gautam-swami, a chief disciple of Lord Mahavir, learned that many people were going to pay homage to Anand for his newly acquired spiritual ability and his austerities. Gautam-swami decided to visit Anand. Despite being physically weak from his severe penances, Anand warmly welcomed his spiritual teacher.

When questioned about his Avadhi-jnän, Anand explained its magnitude. However, Gautam-swami, perhaps due to the exceptional nature of Anand's perception for a layperson, suggested that Anand might have imagined these visions and needed to perform Prayashchitta (atonement). Anand, knowing he was speaking the truth, politely questioned if one needed to repent for speaking the truth.

Puzzled himself, Gautam-swami left, intending to verify the matter with Lord Mahavir. Upon hearing Gautam-swami's account, Lord Mahavir confirmed that Anand was indeed telling the truth and had attained Avadhi-jnän of that magnitude, a rare feat for a layperson. Lord Mahavir then advised Gautam-swami to repent for his mistake.

Following Lord Mahavir's guidance, Gautam-swami immediately returned to Anand and sought his forgiveness for doubting his honesty and truthfulness. This act exemplifies a key principle in Jainism: that a Guru should ask for forgiveness from a disciple if they err, and similarly, monks should seek forgiveness from laypeople.

The story concludes by stating that in the later part of his life, Anand observed a fast unto death and was reborn as a celestial being in Saudharma Devaloka. After exhausting his celestial lifespan, he is destined to be reborn as a human and ultimately attain liberation.

The story of Anand Shravak serves as a valuable lesson:

• For householders (Shravaks): It emphasizes the importance of faith in truth and the potential for significant spiritual progress through the practice of vows.
• About Gautam-swami: It highlights his simplicity, humility, and true devotion to Lord Mahavir, as demonstrated by his willingness to seek forgiveness when in error.
• About Lord Mahavir: It showcases his impartiality and unwavering commitment to truth, as he openly acknowledged his chief disciple's mistake and supported the truth.