Disclaimer: This translation does not guarantee complete accuracy, please confirm with the original page text.
Should one engage in Vaitaliya studies? In response to this question, it is explained that as long as Devadatta or Yajnadutta exist in the world, one should follow the path of restraint with a good resolve, keeping one's soul established in the pursuit of knowledge and worship, in accordance with this prevalent story. In this way, a sage, free from the material essence of attachment and aversion, fit for liberation, and endowed with the discernment of truth and falsehood, should observe restraint throughout their life. The implication is that even after death, the story of a person named Devadatta continues to circulate in the world. Therefore, it is stated here that until the time of death arrives, the muni should remain engaged in the practice of restraint, abandoning shame and pride.
**"The muni, seeing the distant goal, the path of Dharma, is struck by harsh words, even when being beaten, remains steadfast in his time."** (5)
**Translation:** The muni, the knower of the past, present, and future, the seer of the distant - liberation, even when struck by harsh words, tormented, and beaten with punishments, remains steadfast on the path of restraint.
**Commentary:** What is the basis for this conduct? It is explained that due to its distance, liberation is referred to as "distant." Or, a long period of time is called "distant." Therefore, the muni, the knower of the three times - present, past, and future, seeing the distant, i.e., liberation, and contemplating the distant time, should not be affected by shame or pride.
What is the meaning of contemplating the distant time? The commentator explains:
The muni should observe the past, which is connected to the nature or Dharma of beings, and as a result of which they go to higher or lower realms. He should also keep his sight on the future. He should understand the nature of both. While doing so, the muni should not be affected by shame or pride. Even when beaten with sticks, whips, or harsh words, he should follow the path of restraint as described in the scriptures, like the disciple of Skandha Muni. Here, the alternative reading "samya-ahiyasae" means "enduring with equanimity." (5)