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śramana as roughly about the second half of the seventh century V. S,
Ethics:
PHILOSOPHY.
According to Jaiuism, the main purpose of every living being on this earth, viz nirvàņa or final emancipation is attained in the simultaneous observance of these three main doctrines: (1) Right Belief (Faith in the teachings of Jinas) (2) Right knowledge (knowledge of his doctrine) that leads to Salvation and (3) Right Conduct (Perfect Conduct). According to the Jain Philosophy, belief in real existence of tattvas is Right Faith. Knowledge of. real nahire without doubt or error is Right Knowledge attitude of neutrality without desire or aversion towards the objects of exiernal world, is Right Conduct
Virtue consists of the five-fold conduct of one who has knowledge and faith:--
1. Innocence-or a-himsa which is not mere negative abstention but positive kindness to all creation.
2. Charity and Truth-speaking.
3. Honorable conduct-such as not stealing.
4. Chastity in word, thought, and deed. Renunciation of all worldly interests.
5
Jaina Ethics lay stress on both faith and works. All those actions which lead to peace of mined are praya Himsă or infliction of suffering is the great sin or papa.
Untruthfulness, dishonesty, unchastity, covetousness, anger, conceit etc are other sources of sin Sin is no offence against God, but only against man according to Jaina ethics.
The ethical system of the Jainas is more rigorous than that of the Buddhists. It looks upon patience as the bighest good, and pleasure of senses as a source of sin.
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