$JES 203 First Step of Jainism Level 2 Book

Author(s): JAINA Education Committee
Publisher: JAINA Education Committee

Page 90

GREED/CONTENTMENT
5.4 Greed/Contentment
Greed (Lobha) is the cause of many of our problems. We want more and more. There is no end to this greed of possession. No matter how much we have - we still want more!
Striving for more or doing better is not bad or wrong so long as it is done for the right reasons. That is, so long as it is for the purification of the soul and not for worldly gains and benefits.
If greed is not balanced with contentment
it causes competition. The famous phrase 'keeping up with the Joneses' comes into play. No matter how many materialistic things you possess you will always find somebody with more money, a bigger house, a better car, etc. Pursuit of worldly gains is futile because ultimately it leaves you with greater dissatisfaction. Once the desire to acquire what so-and-so has arises within you that burning desire can never
90
Did you know?
Greed is the
cause of many conflicts and wars!
be fulfilled as there is always going to be someone who has more than you.
Contentment is remaining satisfied with what one has while being subjected to various longings and temptations in day-today life. Contentment is basic to our soul, so when we become greedy it gives rise to sorrow and dissatisfaction. When a person is content they experience true mental peace, ease in life and a state of mind free from worries and tension. He does not want
bigger, better and more things all the time. A person can choose between an endless trip of greed or a path leading to contentment and happiness. Let us consider the following scenarios:
A person worked hard and saved money for many years to buy a house. He would say, "After I buy a house I will be content. I will not want anything else." After a few years he was able to buy a house. As soon as he entered the house he decided that he cannot stay in an empty house and said, "As soon as I furnish the house I will not want anything else." Then he decided to get married and have children. Then he needed house cleaners and maids to look after the house and the children. Then he noticed that his neighbors and friends had bigger houses. Now he wanted to keep up with the Joneses. He decided, "After I buy a bigger house I will be content. I will not want anything else." Then the cycle started all over again!
THE FIRST STEP OF JAINISM