Jaina Gazette 1927

SR No.: 034889
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: J L Jaini, Ajitprasad
Publisher: Jaina Gazettee Office
Publication Year: 1927
Total Pages: 568
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 47 MB

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THE JAINA GAZETTE Sadhu-charitra or the life of a Sadhu, and Grahastha-charitra or the life of a layman.
A sadhu or an ascetic has to strictly and thoroughly observe the vows of non-injury (Ahimsa), truth (Satya), non-stealing (Asteya), celibacy (Brahmacharya) and non-covetousness (Aparigrha). These vows of a sadhu are known as Mahavratas i.e. great vows.
One who tries to achieve his own good and also the good of others is a sadhu. A real ascetic is one who cares not for worldly wealth and worldly beauty, and is far away from a layman's attachments and quarrels. His only aim in living such a life is to reach the summits of spiritual heights, and for this he curbs the mental feeling of infatuation and hatred.
Real sadhus, because of their pure and holy life, make a good impression on the world, and by their benevolent preaching lead the world on the path to final bliss. A true sadhu is never confined to any particular society or nation, but he is out with the vow of universal brotherhood which makes him one with the whole universe.
Let us now see what is Grahastha-charitra. The Mahavratas of an ascetic, described above, have to be observed within certain limitations by a layman. That is why these vows of a layman are called Anuvratas (not-great vows).
Every worldly man is required to be honest and straightforward in his business dealings and in any other services rendered by him to society. Moreover he has to be careful about his character, and about his moral well-being. In short it is the duty of a Grahastha to be free from irreligious beliefs, false-hood, dissimulation and from any association with drink or adultery.
Ahimsa or non-injury. In certain quarters the great principle of Ahimsa, as propounded by Jainism, has been greatly misunderstood and unnecessary libels have been cast upon the religion.
Let us make it clear, once for all, that the principle of noninjury as defined by Jainism does not in any way come in the way
of the daily duties of any Grahastha whatever position he may Shree Sudharmaswami Gyanbhandar-Umara, Surat