________________
54: An Introduction to Jaina Sadhanā
3. Svādhyaya — Study of the scriptures. 4.Samyama -- Control of the five senses and the mind.
In practising samyama, it is necessary to renounce certain objects of enjoyments.
5. Tapa or austerities such as meditating upon the nature of soul, every morning and evening, for a fixed period of time.
6. Dāna or Charity – Giving :(a) food, (b) knowledge, (c) medicine and (d) protection to other beings.
In the Svetāmbara texts we have these six essential duties in a different way. They are the same as are prescribed for the monks. Eleven stages of spiritual progress of a house-holder
(1) Darsana-pratimā — Having a firm faith in the doctrines of Jainas.
(2) Vrata-pratimā - Observance of the twelve vows of a house-holder.
(3) Sāmāyika-pratimā — To practise for the equanimity of mind and observance of complete non-violence, thrice a day at least for about 48 minutes duration,
(4) Prosadhopavāsa-pratimā — To observe fast on the 8th & the 14th day of every fortnight and to keep oneself engaged in contemplation.
(5) Sacitta-tyāga-pratimā - Refraining from taking animate water and vegetables.
(6) Rātri-bhukti-tyāga-pratimā - Refraining from taking food and water in the night.
(7) Brahmacarya-pratimā — Observance of complete continence.
(8) Arambha-tyāga-pratimā - To give up all worldly Occupations.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org