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absolute and all comprehensive. It shows that the way to reconcile conflicting viewpoints is by appreciating the relativity of different aspects of reality. CODE OF CONDUCT:
The basic code of conduct for Jains involves the practice of the following five vows: 1) Ahimsa (Nonviolence): Not to hurt any living being by
action, deed, speech or by thought 2) Satya (Truth): To speak the truth, which may not hurt
any living being 3) Asteya/Achaurya (Non-stealing) 4) Brahmacharya (Celibacy, Restraint, Chastity, purity of
thoughts and deeds) 5) Aparigraha (Non-possession, detachment)
Sadhus/Sadhvis observe these five vows but to a much larger extent than the layperson. Since the Shravaks/Shravikas has to raise a family, earn a living, etc, the extent to which he/she can observe these vows is not as great as for Sadhu/Sadhavis. That is why they are called the five great Vows (Maha-vrata) for Sadhus/Sadhavis and the five minor vows (Anu-vrata) for the layperson. Jain Sadhus are not permitted to have any worldly possessions. Jain laypersons are allowed to have worldly possessions as per their requirements for daily life. However, they should not have any attachments to the possessions and they should try to observe all five vows as much as possible. "Live and let live" is the foremost principle of Ahimsa and because of that, Jains have established a system of Panjarapol (sanctuary) to take care of cattle and prevent them from going to slaughterhouses.
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