________________
THE TWELVE “VRATAS' OR VOWS
Among the detailed rules of conduct prescribed for Jainas for their actual observance, the prominent place has been given to the observance of twelve Vratas or vows. The Vrata or vow is a specific rule of behaviour which has to be put into practice for a particular intention. That is why in "Sāgāra-Dharināmrta”, the standardJainabook dealing with the ethical code of householders, the term 'Vrata' has been defined as
संकल्पपूर्वक: सेव्यो नियमो ऽ शुभकर्मणः । Parafaref PIET sfer: Tumor | 2180
that is, Vrata or vow is a (religious) rule (of behaviour) observed with determination (for a particular or indefinite period) and it always indicates aversion or abstinence from doing foul or shameful acts or deeds and it reveals inclination or disposition towards doing good or virtuous acts or deeds. Jainism has laid down a number of such vows for actual observance and among them the twelve Vratas or vows are considered very significant both from religious and social poins of view. Even among these twelve Vratas or vows, the first five vows are regarded as 'main vows' and the remaining seven vows are treated as 'supplementary vows'.
The five main vratas or vows of Jainas are 1) Ahimsā, i. e. to be free from injury, 2) Satya, i.e., to be free from falshood, 3) Asteya, i. e, to be free from theft, 4) Brahmacharya, i. e., to be free from unchastity, and 5) Aparigraha, i. e., to be free from worldly attachment.
If these vratas or vows are very strictly observed they are known as 'Mahāvratas', i. e., great or full vows and naturally these are meant for
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
