Sadhvi Vishrut Vibha
The strength and development of the Terapantha is based on its well-maintained discipline and the disciple’s loyalty to it. The Acharya enacts the maryadas for the organization, which, though never imposed, are heartily accepted by the devoted monks and nuns. In the organization, the monks and the nuns seek guidance from the Acharya who is the sole authority to direct them on their paths of spiritual development.
Acharya Bhikshu was always vigilant for maintaining firm discipline in the order. Ones, he called a monk Muni Veniramji. But even after giving a repeated call to him, there was no response from the monk. Acharya Bhikshu thought that inspite of listening, Veniramji is not responding. He considered this a breach of discipline. He told a lay follower, named Gumanmalji Lunavat, that Veniramji seems to be negligent and hence, may be expelled from the order. Gumanmalji went straight away to the room of Veniramji and related to him the whole event. On hearing it, Veniramji rushed to Acharya Bhikshu and expressing his repentance, he bowed to him. Acharya Bhikshu said, “Why did you not respond to my call?” Veniramji said, “I am very sorry. I was so much engrossed in my work that I could not pay attention to your call.” His humbleness pleased the Acharya who forgave him, but this very incident gave all monks and nuns a valuable lesson of the value of obedience.
