Enlightened Vision of the Self

SR No.: 001375
Original Sutra Author: Akalankadev
Author: Devendra K Goyal
Publisher: Radiant Publishers New Delhi
Publication Year: 2005
Total Pages: 132
Language: English, Sanskrit, Hindi
Classification: Book_English & Philosophy
File Size: 8 MB

Page 115

APPENDIX 2
koi kriyajad thai rahya shushkagyan ma koi mane marg mokshno karuna upje joi
Some are entangled in barren rituals, others stuck in knowledge dry, And in these they view a path to liberation. I have pity for them.
103
If a person is not convinced of the existence and reality of sentient or conscious being (ji) and its special characteristics (such as consciousness, performer of actions and liable for the results thereof, etc.), he would remain deeply engrossed and attached to his body and sensual pleasures. When a particular desire of sense gratification is satisfied, it will lead to attachment to those things and give rise to further desires. If there is any obstruction in the fulfillment of the desires, aversion and anger will be the natural outcome. This enslavement to desires is the root cause of passions and these, in turn, result in the adoption of an attitude of aggressiveness and possessiveness, which are not only harmful to the physical, moral and spiritual well-being of the individual but also militate against social harmony, peace and well-being of mankind. Peace of mind and harmony in society can be achieved only through contentment and fellow feeling.
Characteristics of Samyakdarshan
In addition to the above-mentioned prerequisites of a Samyak drishti, there are certain component parts of samyakdarshan. These are:
1. Nibshankita (freedom from scepticism), i.e. the unshakeable faith or conviction in the existence and reality of the Self and the non-Self and in the doctrine of anekant (non-absolutism). This faith is not blind faith since it is in reality a decision arrived at after mature consideration and understanding of things. A Samyakdrasthi is aware of the limitations of thinking and the harmful effects of frustration. Therefore, after deliberating on different aspects and viewpoints, he wants to arrive at rational decisions and be free from skepticism or doubt (nihshankita). He knows that doubt kills decision and without taking a decision an individual is unable to muster enough courage to