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CONDUCT
C03 - Jain Lay people: Shrävaks and Shrävikäs
It should be noted that Sanlekhanä is not a form of suicide or assisted death. It is usually performed by those who have led a very spiritual life and is taken under the presence of a guru.
Therefore, there is a fundamental difference between suicide and Sanlekhanä. Suicide is the result of the outburst of passions whereas Sanlekhanä is the result of dispassion. Jainism does not sanction instantaneous termination of one's own life. It is considered suicide and it happens in the highest state of anger or depression.
03 Summary
By practicing these twelve vows, a lay person may live a righteous life and advance towards a spiritual state where he works on conquering desires. While earning wealth, supporting his family, and taking up arms to protect himself, his family, and his country against intruders, a layman is taught self-restraint, love and equanimity. By giving up attachments, he/she gradually prepares himself or herself for the life of an ascetic.
The practice of limiting the number of things to be kept or enjoyed by oneself eliminates the danger of concentration of wealth and in turn will help to minimize poverty and crime in society. Therefore, limiting the desires of individuals results in an ideal society.
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Compendium of Jainism - 2015
