Nandishena Sadhu

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sadhu Nandishena" by the JAINA Education Committee, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Sadhu Nandishena Author(s): JAINA Education Committee Publisher: JAINA Education Committee

This Jain text, likely part of a collection of stories from before the time of Bhagwan Mahavir, narrates the story of Sadhu Nandishena, a highly knowledgeable and service-oriented monk. His exceptional spirit of service was so renowned that it was praised even in heaven.

The story begins with Indra, the king of the gods, praising Nandishena in his celestial assembly. Two skeptical devas (gods), hearing this praise, decided to test Nandishena. Possessing divine powers that allowed them to change forms and travel instantaneously, these two devas appeared near Nandishena's village in the guise of an old ascetic and a young monk.

It was the day Nandishena was to break his fast. Having just returned from collecting alms, he was about to begin his meal. At that moment, the young monk approached him, informing him that an old ascetic was suffering from hunger and thirst in a nearby orchard and desperately needed help.

Without a moment's hesitation, Nandishena immediately rose, took clean water, and went to the aid of the old ascetic. Upon seeing Nandishena, the old ascetic reacted with anger, accusing him of neglect while he was suffering. Despite the harsh words, the tolerant and forgiving Nandishena did not retort. Calmly, he offered the water, stating he had brought it for the elder. He then helped clean the ascetic's face and clothes and offered him a place to sit.

When the old ascetic expressed further annoyance, stating he was too weak to sit and was being troubled, Nandishena offered to assist him to a more comfortable position, even suggesting taking him to the upashray (monastic dwelling) if he wished. The ascetic, wanting to further test Nandishena, then instructed him to carry him, but as Nandishena began to carry him on his shoulder, the ascetic began to progressively increase his weight.

This made Nandishena weak and unsteady, almost causing him to fall. The old ascetic then berated him for not walking carefully and for shaking his entire body, implying he was unfit to carry a sick person. Despite these continuous false criticisms and harsh words, Nandishena remained composed and apologized, promising to be more careful. He then continued to walk, thoughtfully considering how he could best care for the ascetic.

Upon reaching the upashray, the old ascetic acknowledged that despite all the insults, Nandishena had been incredibly helpful. He then revealed his true form and bowed to Nandishena, stating that Nandishena was a true example of a monk and deserved all the praise Indra had given him. He offered Nandishena any boon he desired.

Nandishena, however, humbly declined any boon, stating that the human form is precious and that he was content with what he had, having no further desires. The deva was so impressed that he fell at Nandishena's feet before returning to his abode.

The story concludes by highlighting that patience, detachment (sharat), and contentment are fundamental values of Jainism. It emphasizes that Sadhu Nandishena dedicated his life to serving other monks, a task requiring great sacrifice and detachment. The narrative underscores that Nandishena's unwavering dedication to service and his deep faith in his actions were evident even when he was unaware that he was being tested by a Gandharva (a celestial musician/demigod). His contentment and refusal of a boon further exemplify the Jain principle of aparigraha (non-possession/non-attachment).