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SPIRITUAL LIGHT. The House-holder's Duties as a Preliminary Step for Spiritual Development as prescri
bed in the Jain Holy Texts. The knowledge of the fundamental principles of Jainism is essentially required in the practice of layman's duties. Jainism aims at the achievement of the supreme status of Godhood by means of Right Belief, Right Knowledge and Right Conduct. Religion in the shape of disciplinary rules and regulations and prohibitions helps one in making progress on the upward path. It is classified into two parts: Nishchaya 'Dharma and Vyavahar Dharma. By following the Vyavahar Dharma in the true sense, one advances towards Nishchaya Dharma as he cannot abandon worldly affairs and occupations all at once. The observance of these rules and regulations enables a house - holder gradually and steadily to renounce the world and to become completely absorbed in the realisation of Self. The house-holder in order to prepare himself for the ascetic life must observe eleven Pratimās, twelve vows and follow also elevating rules of conduct and practise austerity and pious reflections as laid down in the holy texts.
Darshana Pratimā l'equires a strong and unshakable faith in Jainism ( Samakita ) acquired by quietude, compassion ( Samvega ), fading worldly affections, non-attachment and removal of all doubts by sound knowledge of Jain doctrines. It includes the worship of true Deva ( Tirthankara ), the true preceptor and true Dharma. It also recommends the
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