Compendium of Jainism

SR No.: 001202
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: T K Tukol, A N Upadhye
Publisher: Prasaranga Karnatak University Dharwar
Publication Year: 1980
Total Pages: 352
Language: English
Classification: Book_English & Philosophy
File Size: 17 MB

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COMPENDIUM OF JAINISM
They are connected with each other from the beginning. It is the activities of the mind, speech and body that are responsible for entanglement of the soul with Karma which it is possible to prevent and eradicate by austerities, observance of the principles of religion and by meditation. Man is the architect of his own destiny. The goal of his life is attainment of infinite Faith, knowledge and bliss so as to be free from the fetters of the Karmas. The principles of Ahimsā (Love) and Satya (Truth) have guided the destinies of our country and of other countries that have abided by them. Mahatma Gandhi used them as his armour in our country's struggle for freedom and proved that they are not weapons of the weak but of the brave.
Mahāvíra delivered his sermons in the language of the people, viz., Ardhamāgadhi. His disciples have collected his teachings under twelve titles called the Dādasāngas or the Twelve Scriptures. His message is not one of "empty beart". He emphasised that life had a meaning and could be purposeful only if one lived it with an awareness of its sacred goal. It is a message of hope for a life of piety and love.
Mabávira preached celibacy (brahmucarya) as a separate vow so as to make the total number of vows five: viz. Abimsā, Satya, Acaurya, Brahmacarya and Aparigraha. He also constituted the community into a Sangha consisting of the Munis (Monks), Arjikās (Nuns), Śrāvakas (male house-holdes). For the first two classes, he prescribed the five vows as Mahávratas or the big vows while the same were termed Aņuvratas or small vows for the lay men and lay women. The big vows implied that the votary was to observe them with greater rigour and minuteness, exercising greater care and meticulousness in the observance of each vow in all aspects. He evolved eleven stages (pratimās) amongst the lay men and lay women commencing from the cultivation of Right Faith till the final stage of having the minimum clothing. He also emphasised that for averting the .effects of transgressions, sincere repentances for every lapse was efficacious. He preached that austerities and regular observance of vows were essential for preventing the influx of fresh karmas.