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The Jaina approach to Self-Realization
ment (omniscience)13.14, Kundakundācārya, indicates in Gathā 232 of Pravacanasāra as follows:
yeyaggagado samano yeyaggar nichidassa atthesu. nichitti āgamado āgamcetthā tado jetthā. -- Prvacanasāra, 23.
Five main categories of scriptural studies have been enjoined in Tattvārthasūtra 12/25 as follows:
vācanāprcchanānuprekśāmnāyadharmopadeśāḥ.
i.
Reading includes studying the scriptures individually or in a group, with a view to enhance the horizon of our spiritual learning.
ii. Questioning is meant for clearing concepts as well as to reinforce our
faith in the knowledge acquired. iii. Reflection includes contemplation regarding the nature of basic
elements of universe with a view to enhance dispassion. iv. Recitation includes clearly pronouncing the scriptural texts with a
view to enhance our devotion for the divinity. v. Preaching is a practice to narrate the acquired knowledge before the
audience for the benefits of all concerned.
With the systematic, well guided and patient practice of the above forms of scriptural studies under an enlightened preceptor, the right knowledge grows profusely, faith increases in divine sermons, and one becomes firmly established on the path to spiritual progress. III. Virtuosity (Spiritual Growth)
A sound footing of a truly spiritual life is not possible without a fair degree of virtuosity. Just as a tall building requires a firm foundation and admission to the medical school requires a high ranking, so also optimum virtuosity bestows upon us the required worthiness for advanced spiritual growth.
Even though we know that certain virtues like selflessness and humility do develop in the life of aspirant with the above practices, acquisition of a still higher degree of virtuousity is required for the dawning of true spiritual wisdom. With a view to achieve this, a dual synergistic
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