$JES 901 Jainism and Spiritual Awakening E9

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

Page 59

08 - SAMVAR -STOPPAGE OF KARMA
Mädhyastha
wherever possible Maintaining the state of equanimity under all circumstances
Twenty-Two Parishaha-Jaya (Endurance of Suffering) One should remain in a state of equanimity when hardships occur. There are 22 types of hardships defined in the scriptures such as Hunger, Thirst, Cold, Heat, Insect bites, Hearing of evil words, Diseases and so on.
Five Charitra (Conduct) The endeavor to remain equanimous in a state of spiritual purity is called conduct. There are five categories of conduct defined in Jain scriptures, based on the level of spirituality of an individual. The first Sämäyika Charitra is for lay people and the remaining four conducts are meant for monks and nuns. Sämäyik Charitra
To remain in equanimity for a certain duration (minimum of 48 minutes).
To live the life of an ascetic. This is the level where all monks and nuns practice.
Chhedo-pasthapana Chäritra Parihära-vishuddhi Charitra
Sukshma-Samparaya Charitra
To follow special types of penance as an ascetic. This conduct can be practiced in a lonely place away from the Jain community. To live a life without any Kashaya (anger, greed, ego, deceit) as an ascetic except with some very little) desire to attain Moksha. Jainism considers any desire, a form of greed.
Yathäkhyäta or Vitaraga Chäritra
Living the life of a Kevali (i.e. natural living or living without any passions). This is the natural living of all Keval-inäni monks and nuns.
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JAINISM AND SPIRITUAL AWAKENING