________________
Lesson 7 SPIRITUAL TEACHERS (JAIN SĀDHUS AND SĀDHVIS-MONKS AND NUNS)
Those who teach us are called teachers. Those who teach religion are called the spiritual teachers. Among Jains, they are called Sadhus (monks) or Sadhvis (nuns).
To be a Jain Sadhu or Sadhvi, people have to undergo training. During that training they learn about the Jain philosophy, the Jain scriptures and the special code of conduct for monks and nuns. They learn to detach themselves from all their worldly ties. They learn to give up their families, businesses and social aspects. They must also learn to live without any money.
Once they get used to this life of detachment, they will decide to become Sadhu or Sadhvi. They should not be and are not under any pressure to make this decision. They have to listen to their self. This decision gives them the inner strength they need to be initiated as a true Sadhu or Sadhvi.
Once an Acharya decides to accept them as a Sadhu or Sadhvi, the ceremonial initiation (Diksha) takes place. This is the time when they renounce their worldly life and break their social and economic ties forever. They voluntarily accept five great vows :
1. I will not commit any violence. (Ahimsa) 2. I will not lie. (Satya)
31
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
