$JES 401 Jain Philosophy and Practice 2 Level 4 Book

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

Page 47

A pleasant and serene temperament: We should keep our temperament, heart, voice and appearance, gentle and serene. Popularity: We should attain popularity by acquiring the virtues mentioned above and by practicing noble principles. Farsightedness: Before taking a step in any direction, we should visualize the future consequences of our action; otherwise, we will regret our action. Acting within the limits of our abilities and limitations Acquiring special and appropriate knowledge: We must always think carefully and distinguish between right and wrong; proper and improper actions; advantages etc. Appreciation of virtues: We must always have an eye for virtues both in our life and in the life of others. Instead of looking for defects in others, we must keep looking only for virtues in others
and faults in ourselves. Eight Endeavors: • Gratitude: We should not forget even the slightest benefit that has been conferred upon us by
Gods, spiritual heads, parents and others. Remembering the benefactors, we must always try to be grateful to them according to our ability. Benevolence: Even if others do not help us, we must always help others without any selfish motive. Kindness: We should keep our heart kind and tender and help others by means of action, word and wealth according to our abilities. We should generously donate our time and money for worthy causes. Associating with virtuous people Listening to spiritual discourses: To attain right knowledge and inspiration to improve our life The eight qualities of the intellect: In order to listen to spiritual discourses properly and to benefit from them, we must develop the habit of pursuing the eight qualities of the intellect:
o Desire to listen to spiritual discourses o Listening to a discourse with concentration o Comprehending what is said in the discourse O Recording clearly in the mind what has been comprehended o Thinking logically about what has been said and the examples related to it o Thinking and coming to a conclusion without any doubt o Thoroughly understanding the elements (Tattvas) o After deciding upon an idea, formulating a doctrine determining its true meaning, and its
essence (Tattva Jnän) • Conforming to well-known traditions and practices: Adoring the virtuous: The following are the virtues and activities of the noble people:
o Fearing social censure o Helping those in distress o Gratitude o Respecting others and not disturbing their prayers and other spiritual activities
JAIN PHILOSOPHY AND PRACTICE - 2