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580.1
[The Lord's Philosophy
[XII] Atithi Samvibhag Vrata:
To entertain the guests, specially the Munis in a fitting manner by giving them food, drink, medicine etc.
This Vrata is a test of the generosity of a Shravaka. It is clearly seen from the descriptious of Shravakas in ancient days that they were generous and charitable That is why they are called za gait" in Shastras. They were so generous that their doors were ever open for charity.
86
This is a brief outline of the twelve Vratas to be observed by a Shravaka and this closes the description of Right Action.
This will clearly prove that the Shravakas work not neglected by the Lord Mahavir. They were not only consolidated into Sangha [ Orders ] but rules were laid down for their conduct. We think that this charactristic chiefly played the most important part in establishing a permanent sway of Jainism in India from where Buddhism was cleanly swept away.
The description of penance forms a part of the description of Right Action as penance is a part of character and action. The Jain Scriptures have enumerated hundreds of form of this penance and their serial order will conclusively prove the scientific outlook of the framers. We request the readers to excuse us as the limited space at our disposal is not conducive to any lengthy enumeration of them.
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