$JES 302 Jain Philosophy Level 3 Book

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

Page 60

FIVE GREAT VOWS
Monks are required to observe this vow strictly and completely. They should not enjoy sensual pleasures and pleasure derived from the five senses. There are several rules laid down for observing this vow for householders. They should not have a physical relationship with anyone other than one's own spouse. The relationship with your own spouse should also be limited.
Non-attachment / Non-possession (Aparigraha)
Jainism believes that the more wealth a person possesses, the more he is likely to commit sin to acquire and maintain the possessions, and in the long run he will be unhappy.
Wealth creates attachment, which results in continued greed, jealousy, selfishness, ego, hatred, violence, etc. Lord Mahävir has said that wants and desires have no limit. An attachment to worldly objects results in the bondage of Karma, which leads to the cycles of birth and death. Therefore, one who desires liberation should withdraw from all attachments to the pleasures of all five senses. Monks observe this vow by giving up attachments to all things while householders should limit possessions.
Non-possession and non-attachment are to be observed by speech, mind, and actions. One should not possess, ask others to do so, or approve of such activities.
Jainism has described in much detail the five great vows (Mahä Vrata) for the path of liberation. They are to be observed strictly and completely by monks and nuns. Limited observance is laid down for householders in the form of the five minor vows (Anu Vrata).
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Until we extend our circle of compassion to include every living creature we cannot enjoy 'World Peace'.
--Albert Schweitzer
JAIN PHILOSOPHY AND PRACTICE I