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CONDUCT
C06 - Panchächär: Five Codes of Conduct
How does one gain knowledge? The soul is indestructible. In its purest form, the soul exhibits inherent qualities of infinite knowledge, infinite perception, infinite bliss, and infinite energy. However, bonded karma prevents the soul from exhibiting its purest nature. It should be clearly understood that knowledge does not come without effort. Attaining right knowledge is the first and the foremost step in our journey towards liberation. The way to acquire knowledge is by eradicating or suppressing Karma. This can be done by undertaking virtuous Karma and/or by bearing the consequence of operating Karma with equanimity. The karma that prevents the soul from acquiring knowledge is known as knowledge obscuring (Jnänävaraniya) karma. We acquire knowledge-obscuring karma if we do not properly follow the codes of conduct related to knowledge as prescribed by our scriptures. Let us understand this phenomenon by illustrating the case of Mati-jnän (empirical knowledge). Suppose some particular prayer has to be memorized. One person may succeed in memorizing it with little effort, another may have to repeatedly recite it for memorizing it, and someone else may fail to memorize it despite all possible efforts. In the first case, the bondage of obscuring Karma is very loose. In the second case, the bondage is rather tight and needs more efforts or higher countervailing Karma to break the bond. In the third case, the bondage is unbreakable and the consequences of that karma must come to fruition. Everyone should therefore endeavor or undertake such countervailing Karma to break the bondage of the knowledge obscuring Karma. Endeavors to break the bondage of knowledge obscuring karma by self-effort is known as Purushärtha. Whether it succeeds or not depends upon the intensity of the operative Karmas. Purushartha has two aspects, external and internal. Trying to gain Mati-jnän and Shruta-Jnän by developing and exercising physical and mental abilities is external Purushärtha. Trying to gain spiritual development by practicing Nirjarä (eradication of karmas) is internal Purushärtha. Avadhijnän, Manah-Paryäya-Jnän and Keval-jnän automatically emerge by internal Purushärtha. Everyone should therefore devote maximum energy for internal Purushärtha. Jain tradition is particularly concerned with acquiring knowledge (Jnän). For that purpose, it lays down the following code of conduct (ächär):
Studying at the proper time Reverence for teachers and proper care for the means of gaining knowledge Esteem for the learned Observance of the required austerities for getting properly equipped for knowledge Utmost loyalty to preceptors
Accurate study of the sutras (religious scriptures) • Understanding the proper meanings of sutras
• Grasping the underlying meaning, essence, and purpose of sutras One should appropriately select the school and subjects of study, study at the proper time, attend classes regularly, patiently learn and absorb what is being taught, carefully follow instructions, do the required homework, take proper care of books and other study materials, respect teachers, etc. Undertaking research, remaining in touch with the latest developments, taking refresher courses, participating in seminars and workshops for the purpose of more intensive study, etc. constitute more advanced means of Purushärtha. It should be understood that not everyone has the same capacity to absorb what is being taught. The outcomes are therefore bound to be different. However, if one wants to gain knowledge, pursue goals with diligence, and has access to capable teachers and guides, they can surely gain what they might be seeking. In other words, knowledge-obscuring Karma would give way in the face of Purushärtha.
Compendium of Jainism - 2015
Page 155 of 398
