ABC of Jainism

Author(s): S L Jain
Publisher: Maitree Samooh

Page 10

existence of different species of living beings. In conclusion, it could be said that present good deeds result in good future.
CHAPTER 5
JAINA ETHICAL CODE Question : what is the Jaina Ethical Code. Answer: Jaina ethical code consists of the practice of Ahinsa, Satya, Achourya, Brahmcharya and Aparigrah. This is divided into two categories- those prescribed for the house-holders and those prescribed for the monks. House- holders follow this code partially and monks completely.
Question : What is the concept of Ahinsa ? Answer: Ahinsa means non-violence or non-injury. For non-violence, we should have practice of compassion in every action. We should avoid thought of killing or hurting. We should be trust-full with our family & friends. We should be respectful toward our parents and should listen and follow their good advice. Bad feelings and thoughts are also violence and therefore we should avoid them. Similarly, avoid the habit of smoking, drinking, eating non-vegetarian food, gambling, committing crime etc. As these are all parts of violence.
Question : What is the Concept of Satya ? Answer: Satya means speaking the truth to avoid falsehood. Our speech should be pleasant to others. Before speaking, our intention should not be to hurt others. We should not use hurting, harsh or impolite words. We should avoid falsehood, revealing secrets and deformities of others, backbiting, making false documents and committing breach of trust.
Question: What is the concept of Achourya ? Answer: Achourya means non-theft. To take anything, which is not given or does not belong to us is theft. To grab or to give other's deposits, left over or forgotten wealth of others are forms of theft. To give instructions for making theft, receiving the stolen property, blank marketing and smuggling, adulteration, keeping false measurements and weights are all included in the theft. In the family also, if we use anything belonging to other family members without their consent, should also be