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56 MAHĀVĪRA · HIS LIFE AND TEACHINGS forward to forsake all things for the good and happiness of others. • Chastity, sexual and moral, is a virtue alıke for individuals and nations to develop And this he taught alike to individuals and nations that came under his influence
Salvation was preached as the birthright of men, and it was assured to all without distinction of caste or creed or sex
The Kriyāvāda or doctrine of action which he taught went to make men conscious of their responsibility for all their acts, mental, vocal or bodily The same also awakened the consciousness that salvation was not a gift of favour but an attainment within human possibility
Thus he dispensed with the idea of hereditary priesthood It is for all persons to decide for themselves whether they will live as householders or turn monks according to their choice and fitness
The Syādvāda forming the basis of Jain metaphysics and dialectics is still a doctrine, which is very imperfectly understood But certain it is that this doctrine was formulated as a scheme of thought in which there is room for consideration of all points of view, and of all ideals This was brought forward at a most critical period of Indian * 91. should be the
