Concept of Divinity in Jainism

SR No.: 001637
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: P Ajay Kothari
Publisher: Prakrit Bharti Academy
Publication Year: 2000
Total Pages: 248
Language: English
Classification: Book_English, Religion, & Devotion
File Size: 15 MB

Page 187

ii) Charitrachara — consists in making the soul tranquil from all disturbances arising from attachment, etc.
iv) Tapachara - It consists in the practice of various penances for self-control.
v) Viryachara - It means to protect the practice of the aforesaid four acharas.
An acharya practices the five conducts and sets himself as an example for disciples.212 Householders take the religious vows from him and practice accordingly.213 Acharya is possessed of thirty six ethical qualities viz., nine fold celibacy (nanavidhabrahmacharyagupti), five fold sense-control (panchendriyasamvasarana), renunciation of four passions (kashayachatustayarahitatva), practice of five great vows (panchamahavratopetatva), practice of five fold good conduct (panchavidhaacharapalakatva), five-fold religious carefulness (panchasamitisampannatva), and three-fold protection (guptitraya guptatva). He with the thirty-six attributes is offered obeisance.214 Besides the best qualities, acharya is an expert in fourteen kinds of sciences (vidya), and is firm like a Meru, tolerant like the earth and free from fear.215 Acharya is skilled master in revealed scrip
tures.216
Acharya, the practitioner of the divinity, is the head of the four fold order and advises the practice of conducts to come out of the transmigration which is the supreme goal.217 Hence, obeisance is offered. Acharya leads others to practice the religious conducts and as such is a Parameshti to be meditated.218 4. THE UPADHYAYA
The fourth member of Panchaparameshti is upadhyaya, an ordained monk, who is a teacher of scriptural text. He is possessed of ratna-traya viz., right faith, right knowledge and right conduct and is desireless.219 He is well versed in Anga and purva scriptures. He teaches for the sake of liberation of others.220
L
.
THE CONCEPT OF DIVINITY IN JAINISM
173