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This text sheds light on the importance of the Acharya and explains how to conduct oneself in their absence. If the Acharya or Upadhyaya are severely ill and their life expectancy is low, all other Shramans should be called together and the Acharya should declare that upon his passing, a particular Sadhu should be bestowed with a particular position. If, after the Acharya's death, that Sadhu does not appear to be suitable, another can be appointed. If the Sadhu is deemed worthy, he should be appointed. If another worthy Shraman is not yet proficient in the Acharanga and other texts, then with the consent of the Acharya and others, the Sadhu can be temporarily appointed to any position. Upon finding a suitable candidate, the previous individual should relinquish their position. Failure to do so will result in a penance. If two Shramans are traveling together, they should conduct themselves as senior and junior according to their merit and respect each other. The same applies to the Acharya and Upadhyaya. In the fifth Uddeshak, it is stated that the Pravartini should travel from village to village during the cold and hot seasons with at least two other Sadhvis, and the Ganavachhedaka should be accompanied by three other Sadhvis. During the rainy season, the Pravartini should be accompanied by three and the Ganavachhedaka by four Sadhvis. The same rules regarding the death of the Pravartini and the appointment of a successor that apply to Shramans should also be understood for Shramanis. The general rule for Vaiavrittya is that a Shraman should not perform Vaiavrittya for a Shramani, and vice versa. However, they can serve each other as an exception. In exceptional circumstances, such as a snakebite, service can be obtained from a householder. This rule applies to Sthavirakalpis. There is no provision for service for Jinakalpis. If they seek service, they must perform a Pariharic penance. The sixth Uddeshak states that one should not visit their relatives without the permission of the Sthaviras. Shramans and Shramanis who are of limited knowledge and experience should not visit their relatives alone. If they must visit, they should do so with a Shraman or Shramani who is well-versed in knowledge and experience. Any food that is prepared before the arrival of a Shraman is acceptable, but anything that is not prepared is not acceptable. When the Acharya or Upadhyaya arrive at the Upashraya from outside, their feet should be wiped clean. Their belongings, such as their small bag, should be carefully placed on the ground. They should be served with Vaiavrittya as much as possible. They should be accompanied within the Upashraya. When they leave the Upashraya, they should be accompanied. The Ganavachhedaka should be accompanied within the Upashraya and when leaving. Shramans and Shramanis are expected to live with Shramans and Shramanis who are knowledgeable in the Acharanga and other Agamas. Living with those who are not knowledgeable will result in penance. If Shramans and Shramanis from other Gachchas come for a specific reason, and they are innocent, virtuous, free from major faults, untouched by anger and other vices, and self-critical, then they should be treated with equality. Otherwise, they should not be. [ 57 ]