Jain stories for kids

In shortTwo true stories from the life of Bhagwan Mahavir, to read aloud in 5 minutes.

Story 1

How Vardhaman became Mahavir

वर्धमान से महावीर

Young prince Vardhaman was playing on a tree in a garden with his friends.

A deva named Sangam came to test his courage. He took the form of a huge snake and wound himself around the tree.

All the other children got scared and jumped down. Vardhaman was not afraid at all. He climbed onto the snake and played as calmly as if he were on his mother's bed.

Filled with joy, Sangam deva praised him and gave him the name Mahavir, the great brave one.

What we learnTrue bravery is a calm mind. A soul that knows itself does not fear.

Talk about itWhen were you scared? What helped you feel calm?

Source: Uttar Puran, Acharya Gunabhadra (page 491)

Story 2

The lion who became a Tirthankar

सिंह से तीर्थंकर

Many births before he became Bhagwan Mahavir, his soul was born as a fierce lion.

One day, as the lion was hunting a deer, two Digambar munis came down from the sky.

With great compassion they told the lion about his past births and his suffering, and that he would one day become a Tirthankar.

The lion listened. Tears fell from his eyes, he felt sorry for the harm he had done, and he gained right belief. From that day his journey turned towards becoming Bhagwan Mahavir.

What we learnEvery soul, even a lion, can change. It is never too late to turn towards the good.

Talk about itIs there one small habit you would like to change, like the lion did?

Source: Jain Pauranik Laghu Kathayen, part 2

छोटा सा क्विज़Test yourself

1. Who came to test Vardhaman's courage?

Sangam deva, in the form of a huge snake.

2. What does the name Mahavir mean?

The great brave one.

3. Who spoke to the lion with compassion?

Two Digambar munis who came down from the sky.

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