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16- Six Daily Observances
Jainism is a very practical religion, which helps us in every day affairs of life. Jainism must be practiced and lived. Jain ethics is meant for all men and women in every walk of life. Contemplation of the soul is the main part of Jainism. Contemplation of the soul includes thinking, analyzing, and meditating as a part of the right conduct.
16 SIX DAILY OBSERVANCES
The rituals are interwoven in the daily life of a pious Jain. Going to the temple, listening to the Guru, practicing vows, giving alms to monks and needy, performing Sämäyik for equanimity, performing Pratikraman for introspection, practicing nonviolence, carrying out charitable acts, living an honest life and many similar acts constitute the daily rituals of a Jain.
The soul, in its pure form, has infinite perception, infinite knowledge, infinite vigor, and infinite bliss. These attributes are not realized by a worldly soul because it is smeared with karmas. The karmas are mainly due to four passions (Kashäya); anger, ego, deceit and greed. Tirthankars have expounded on many ways to free us from these four Kashaya to attain liberation. One of the ways is a daily practice of six Ävashyaka (essentials). Practicing six essential rites with true faith helps us progress spiritually. These six essential rites are to be practiced daily. There are some differences that exist between Shvetämbar and Digambar traditions.
A. Six Essentials of Shvetämbar-Tradition
Sämäyik
Chauvisattho
Vandanä
Pratikraman
To remain calm and undisturbed in the state of equanimity and with the oath of non-violence and any other oaths for 48 minutes
To pray and appreciate the virtues of the twenty-four Tirthankaras
Devotion and service to ascetics
To repent, reproach, and reflect upon past wrong thoughts, words, and deeds
JAINISM AND SPIRITUAL AWAKENING
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