Essence of Jainism Part 01

SR No.: 006768
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Kushalchandravijay
Publisher: 108 jain Tirth Darshan Trust
Publication Year: 1992
Total Pages: 176
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 7 MB

Page 129

Scriptures ordained us to observe a fast at least once a fortnight. If it is not possible, we should observe two Ayambils or four Ekasanas or eight Beasanas or at least count twenty rosaries. This helps us in keeping fit and live according to the commandments of Jina. (17) Taking wholesome food as suited to ones health :
We should take good food and in a limited measure. We should eat a little less than required, if possible. Eating less will not harm us. We should adjust our diet as per seasons, in winter, summer and monsoon to promote good health we can do religious activities only if we are healthy. We should eat to live and not live to eat. The scriptures narrated that King Pundarik died while breaking the three days fast by eating food that he could not digest. Kandrik Muni gave up his monkhood and thereafter he took such food which he could not digest and lost his life. Hence, we should only eat according to our body's requirements and not more.
(18) To attain Artha and Kama in life in confirmity with Religion :
Religion, riches, desires and liberation are the pursiuits in life. There should be no conflict, between religion earning reiches and fulfiment of desires.
We should live in a such a way that there would be harmonious adjustment in respect of Dharma, Arth and kama so that we shall be able to uplift the soul and attain liberation (Moksha).
Dharma (Religion): A householder should not neglect religion by using Artha for kama. It results in destroying the seeds of religion and in causing unhappiness. Verily, there is no happiness if there is no religion in life.
Arth (Wealth) : If we spend our life in making money by forsaking religion that money may be enjoyed by others by we alone will suffer the evil consequences of sins committed by us in earning wealth and no one elsewill.
Kama (Desires): If one is engrossed in satisfacton of desires of all sorts including desire for sex, he will lose both wealth religion. If merits earned previously are exhausted, one will invite miseries. One should learn to live in such away that he can pursue Dharma, Artha and Kama without causing damage to oneself from moral point of view.
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