Life of Mahavir
Vardhaman's Renunciation
वर्धमान की दीक्षा · વર્ધમાનની દીક્ષા
A promise made before birth, a year of giving, and one step into freedom
- 4 min full story
- 2 min children's telling
- For all ages
- Shvetambar telling
Vardhaman longs to leave the palace for the path of the soul, but a promise made for his mother's sake holds him back. When the moment comes, he gives away everything before taking the monk's vow.
What it teaches Renunciation Love for parents Generosity Patience
The opening of the children's telling
When Vardhaman was a tiny baby still inside his mother, he loved her very much. He thought, I will stay with my mother and father as long as they live, so they will never be sad.
So Vardhaman grew up in the palace. He was gentle and kind, and he kept his promise. But in his heart, he wished to become a monk and help all living beings.
Read the whole story See plans
To carry into the day
Real freedom begins with love for those around us and a generous heart.
To talk about together
Why do you think Vardhaman gave away all his wealth before he became a monk?
Retold for JainStory from the traditional narrative and checked against published Jain sources. Details vary between tellings.