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bodies are like our outer garments and that our physical existence is just a vehicle for crossing the ocean of worldly miseries.
How to Imbibe Equanimity
Evidently, rationalism is essential for understanding and accepting realities, which, in turn, bring about equanimity. Rationalism is the trinity of rational perception, rational knowledge and rational conduct. Rational perception entails understanding the relationship between soul and external world as expressed by the following nine aspects of reality.
1. Living beings (JEEV)
2. Non-living entities (AJEEV)
3. Influx of karma particles (AASHRAV)
4. Bondage of karma particles (BANDH)
5. Meritorious karma (PUNYA)
6. Demeritorious karma (PAAP)
7. Stoppage of influx of karma particles (SAMVAR)
8. Shedding of karma particles (NIRJARA)
9. Salvation (MOKSHA)
We can develop discerning knowledge (the distinction between soul and material world) by understanding the above aspects of reality.
Rational knowledge comes from the study of scriptures, which includes study (SWAADHYAAYA) and religious discourses (PRAVACHAN). Contemplation and meditation are also essential for developing understanding and acceptance of reality.
Contemplation and Equanimity
Acharya Hem Chandra, in his celebrated work 'YOGASHASTRA', states:
Equanimity comes from non-attachment which, in turn, is cultivated through contemplation on the following twelve facets of reality:
1. Impermanence (ANITYA)
2. Helplessness (ASHARAN)
3. Transmigration (SAMSAAR)
4. Solitariness (AEKATVA)
5. Distinctness (ANYATVA)
6. Impurity of body (ASHAUCH)
7.Influx of karma (AASHRAV)
8. Stoppage of karmic influx (SAMVAR)
Jain Education International
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