Way of Life Part 1

SR No.: 006513
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Bhadraguptasuri
Publisher: Vishvakalyan Prakashan Trust Mehsana
Publication Year: 1986
Total Pages: 432
Language: English
Classification: Book_English & Religion
File Size: 22 MB

Page 49

DISCOURSE 3
39
Examine Your Intellects
See whether they are pure or impure
The man whose intellect is pure and clean, surely thinks of the fruits of his actions, both of the worldly fruits and of the otherworldly fruits. He will think of the immediate fruits as well as the final results. People who possess a pure and clean intellect do not do those actions though their worldly results are good, if their otherworldly results are harmful. If an action brings some good results immediately but if it brings dangerous results in the long-run, intelligent people shun it. People who possess a pure intellect like to do those actions whose fruits are beneficial in both the worlds - in the present worldly life; and in the future state of existence. They perform those actions that bring beneficial fruits in this world and in the other world. Do you realize this ? Now, you examine your intellects. See whether your intellects are pure or impure: clean or unclean.
The fruit of Dharma has been described. The fruit of Dharma is beneficial in this world as well as in the other world or the future state of existence. Wealth and enjoyments are the worldly fruits of Dharma. Its otherworldly pleasures are the attainment of heavenly existence and the attainment of salvation.
Not Enticement or Fear
But only activity!
Question :
Are not heaven and hell merely our mental creations made with the purpose of impelling men to adore and practise Dharma ? The purpose of impelling men to adore and practise Dharma is noble; but how far is it proper and right to use enticement and fear? How far is it proper to entice men by the attractions of the imagined heaven; and to make them fear hell by describing its horrors ?