Introduction to Jainism and its Culture

SR No.: 001605
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Balbhadra Jain
Publisher: Kundkund Gyanpith Indore
Publication Year: 2002
Total Pages: 334
Language: English
Classification: Book_English, Religion, & Culture
File Size: 21 MB

Page 189

their abilities and put into the corresponding castes. The goal of caste system was to provide means of livelihood and ample opportunities of progress to every individual and to fulfill all needs of the society. In order to maintain the smooth functioning and stability of the social structure it was essential for everyone to discharge his duties as a member of his caste. In this system duty was given precedence over right.
SYSTEM OF GOVERNANCE AND LAW
In the age of enjoyment the human needs were limited and sources (kalpavrkšas) of provisions were in abundance. Therefore, criminal tendency was absent. When the age of work began the sources became scarce and intelligence and diligence were needed to procure from or create sources. Every one was not equipped with same resourcefulness. Therefore, criminal tendency in men became a natural consequence. The system of punishment evolved and effectively used by Kulakaras, in the form of three expletives Hā! Mā! and Dhik!, became ineffective in the age of work.
However, minor, incidents of crime still disturbed the masses. One day they all came to Rşabhadeva and presented their problems. Rşabhadeva said, “Crimes can be contained only by punishment and king alone has the right to punish.”
The citizens returned. They deliberated and after consulting Nābhirāya they unanimously decided to make Rşabhadeva their king. They went back to Rșabhadeva and informing him about their decision requested him to accept the post of king. Rşabhadeva gave his consent. On an auspicious day and moment the coronation of Rşabhadeva was conducted with great fan fare.
As soon as Rşabhadeva took the reigns of the kingdom in his hands he prepared a book of codes for kings. It went like this – “As a cow is milked without causing any pain and in return all protection and comfort is provided to it, so should a king realize taxes from people without tormenting them and he should use this revenue for their protection and welfare..."
172 For Private & Personal Use Only