Source Book in Jaina Philosophy

SR No.: 001263
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Devendramuni
Publisher: Tarak Guru Jain Granthalay
Publication Year: 1983
Total Pages: 590
Language: English
Classification: Book_English & Philosophy
File Size: 10 MB

Page 226

A SOURCE-BOOK IN JAINA PHILOSOPHY
controls his mind and indulges himself in auspicious and religious activities.
Considering from medicinal point of view, fasting is a cause of bodily-purification. It is the maxim of vaidyaka sastra-to keep fast is the best medicine (Langhanam paramauṣadham). The fast does not only purify the body but it also purifies the mind even.
Gitā says, by giving up to eat food the senses become pure and consequently mind also becomes pure. That is why, a Vedic saint has said-'there is no hardship greater than fast. But generally it is very difficult to practise, nay only difficult but most difficult to the superlative degree.2
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Really, to keep fast and observe anasana tapa is a fire-bath. One, who can practise it, will be capable to burn all the filth of body and mind. He will shine like a sparkling star.
what?
Ganadhara Gautama once asked humbly to Bhagawana Mabavira-Venerable! By keeping fast (anasana) jīva accomplishes
Venerable Bhagawana Mahavira replied thus-O Gautama ! By practising anaśana tapa, jiva is bereaved from the desire of living, alias his attachment towards the body and vital forces (präṇa).3 Consequently the ascetic gets bereavement from the attachment towards his vital forces and body.
One thinker warned the person, while keeping fast, not to do three deeds, viz., (1) anger (2) pride and (3) negligence (pramada). He as well suggested to do three deeds viz., (1) to observe celibacy (2) study the holy scriptures and (3) self-realisation.
The word anasana means forbearance of food. It may be at least for one day and at the most of six months and in special circumstances life-long.
1. Bhagavadgītā 2/59.
2. Maitrayani Aranyaka 10/62.
3. Uttaradhyayana 29/35.