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**The Path of Guidance**
**Verse:**
The path, as revealed by the great Lord Mahavira, I will explain in detail. Listen! Just as merchants and traders cross the ocean, so too have many beings crossed the ocean of existence by taking refuge in this path.
**Commentary:**
As I explain this path in detail, listen carefully. The path is attained through gradual practice, as follows:
* **First, the arising of the twelve karmas.**
* **Then, the destruction or pacification of the twelve karmas through yoga.**
* **This leads to the attainment of good conduct.**
And so on, until the four supreme limbs are attained.
What is this path? It is described as "great and terrible" because it is difficult to understand, just as a battlefield is difficult to enter for a coward. This path was revealed by Mahavira, the great Lord Vardhamana. I will explain it to you. This indicates that I am not speaking from my own intellect or imagination.
By embracing this pure path, many great beings have crossed the ocean of existence. Here is an analogy:
Merchants and traders who engage in buying and selling are called "vyavaharis." They travel to different cities seeking profit, and they cross even the most difficult oceans in their ships. Similarly, those who seek true and lasting happiness, who are free from attachment and obstacles, cross the ocean of existence through the path of right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct, guided by the Jinas.
**Verse:**
Some have crossed, others will cross, and I will explain this path to you. Listen to me, beings!