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The Jaina approach to Self-Realization
The great saint-philosopher, Śrī Šamkarācārya describes the fruits of Satsanga as follows: satsangatve niḥsargatvan/
niḥsargatve nirmohatvaṁ// nirmohatve niścalacittam/
niścalacitte jīvanamuktih.* // During the practice of this holy association, the following points should be observed scrupulously for a successful outcome: i. Timings: The aspirant must regularly attend Satsanga, say initially
twice a week, and then gradually increasing it to daily sessions. Furthermore, he should also periodically spend a few days in a pilgrimage centre or a monastery (Āśrama) as a preparatory state for
the forthcoming period of intensive spiritual discipline (Sadhanā). ii. Alertness : The aspirant should visit the Satsanga with due devotion
and attention, give up the dogmas and be really humble with the highest degree of reverence for the teacher. He should carry out the teacher's instructions unreservedly for progressive self-improvement. During these sessions, he should preferably take notes so that
the grasp of the subject becomes firm and clear. iii. Patience and perseverance : In the initial stages of Satsanga, the
mind does not take interest in such gatherings, but with gradual
training it concentrates on the sermon. iv. Priority : In early stages, involvement in routine worldly activities
apparently prevents aspirant from devoting enough time for Sadhanā. When priority is given to this holy association and ordinary worldly affairs are subordinated to it, enough time becomes available.
v.
Zealous search : During the pursuit of this holy association, the aspirant should make a genuine and zealous search for a truly enlightened preceptor. If he is fortunate enough to get such a great master with true vision, and is able to act scrupulously in consonance with his instructions, he will not only grasp the basic tenets of spiritual truth within a few months, but will also be able to achieve an aggressive and unprecedental progress in the path of salvation6.7.8
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