Humanism of Haribhadra

SR No.: 269045
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Christian Lindtner
Publisher: Z_Nirgranth_Aetihasik_Lekh_Samucchay_Part_1_002105.pdf and Nirgranth_Aetihasik_Lekh_Samucchay_Part_2
Publication Year: 2004
Total Pages: 66
Language: English
Classification: Article & Ascetics
File Size: 2 MB

Page 45

The Humanism of Haribhadra
247
6.
Such an abstention from all bad karma is fully accepted by good men. Therefore a (mode of behaviour) that alarms one's parents is not at all suitable.
To be obedient to one's parents is certainly a very auspicious commencement of such (good and decent behaviour) : One's parents are a great object of worship for men who are engaged in dharma.
If a man loves his parents he is considered a grateful person, a person who worships the dharma and his parents. He is a man who participates in the pure dharma.
XXVI. Eight Verses to Establish the Greatness of the Gifts of the Ascetic
1.
It is not correct if one thinks that the great gift of the Guru of the world can be calculated. A sacred text which starts with 3.000.000.000 (gifts and goes on may here] be mentioned. Objection : In the appropriate texts of others, the [number of gifts) is described by others as innumerable. This i.e. the [term "innumerable"]-is precisely suitable here in our scriptures], for it fits with the meaning of the word "great".
3.
Therefore, because of their great dignity, as a whole, the status of Gurus of the world here [in our scriptures] logically belongs to these (Jinas) only. Everything, of course, is great to great [men] !
4.
Reply : One (Bauddha] may argue thus out of delusion, not being able to determine the meaning of the sūtra properly. From this one can see how limited this (man's sense of] logic is !
5.
Strictly speaking, it is of course true that the great gift (or generosity] of the Guru of the world can be calculated. Hence it is set out in the sūtra that the number can be increased and increased.
6.
How can [his great generosity) be expressed in a precise number ! That would be due to an error ! Therefore the concept of a number should be understood in the sense as expressed (as "infinite"].
7.
This is also (a token of his] great authority. If people in most cases are not interested in its presence, it is because it is associated with a very special kind of pleasure funknown to them).