Jainism and Democracy

SR No.: 001645
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Indra Chandra Shastri
Publisher: I A S S Jain Conference New Delhi
Total Pages: 184
Language: English
Classification: Book_English, Religion, & society
File Size: 8 MB

Page 140

THE GREAT SCRIPTURES OF JAINS
universal appeal and provides formula for solution of the eternal problems of life. It deservers a high place among the great scriptures of the world.
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2. The second Anga is Suyagada. It is important for the study of heretic systems prevalent at that time. This is also divided into two sections. The second is prcbably only an appendix, added later on to the old Anga which we have in the first section. The explicit purpose of the book is to keep young monks away from the heretical doctrines of other teachers' to warn them of all dangers and temptations, to confirm them in their faith and thus lead them to the highest goal. There is a graphic description of the cares and dangers with which the monastic life is fraught, but, by which the novice should not allow himself to be repelled. His friends and relatives seek to hold him back and paint the joys of family life to him in attractive colours. Kings and ministers, Brahmins and warriors endeavour to entice him to return to the world, but he is to withstand all these temptations. Critics and heretics attack him, and he should stand up to them courageously. Most especially however, the young monk should beware of the blandishments of women, who use their utmost endeavours to fascinate him in every manner imaginable. By way of warning, there is a description full of honour of the plight of men who have been caught in the web of women.
The above mentioned precaution is peculiar to Jain and Buddhist ascetics only. The necessity arose probably from the iniscriminate initiation of young novices. In the Vedic tradition where ascetic life is prescribed for the aged only, this type of warning was unnecessary.