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## 314
**Aaturpratyakhyanaprakirnakam**
**Verse 53:**
The previous meritorious deeds, devoid of non-violence, have been abandoned by me. Now, I embrace death, equipped with the intellect and wisdom, having purified the passions.
**Explanation:**
The term "previous meritorious deeds" refers to the three types of austerities: the highest (lasting twelve years), the medium (lasting twelve months), and the lowest (lasting twelve fortnights). The term "devoid of non-violence" indicates that these austerities were not performed with the intention of achieving non-violence. The term "purified the passions" refers to the elimination of the passions through meditation and self-reflection. The term "embrace death" refers to the practice of fasting unto death, which is a common practice in Jainism.
**Verse 54:**
Those who perform austerities without proper preparation and engage in fasting without proper guidance, fall prey to the consequences of their past actions.
**Explanation:**
The term "austerities without proper preparation" refers to the practice of austerities without proper knowledge and understanding. The term "fasting without proper guidance" refers to the practice of fasting without the guidance of a qualified teacher. The term "consequences of their past actions" refers to the karmic consequences of their past actions, which can lead to suffering in this life or in future lives.
**Verse 55:**
Therefore, a wise person should engage in austerities with a clear purpose, and should strive to cultivate the virtues of knowledge, vision, and conduct, without abandoning the path of liberation.
**Explanation:**
The term "austerities with a clear purpose" refers to the practice of austerities with the intention of achieving liberation. The term "cultivate the virtues of knowledge, vision, and conduct" refers to the practice of developing the three jewels of Jainism: right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct. The term "without abandoning the path of liberation" refers to the practice of remaining steadfast in one's commitment to liberation.