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ज्ञाताधर्मकथांग सूत्र
LU
CONCLUSION
This second story of the Jnata Dharma Katha highlights the importance of detached mundane activities on the spiritual path. As long as the soul rides the chariot of body it is imperative for the travel to maintain the chariot in running condition. Whatever activity is needed for this maintenance is its imperative duty. As such there is no scope of ambiguity or a second thought. But all such activity has to be done with a detached attitude and not because of liking, fear, habit, or fondness.
This story has been written in metaphoric style
The city of Rajagriha is the abode of human beings. Dhanya is an ascetic or a practicer on the spiritual path. Vijay thief is the body of that ascetic. Devdutt is the discipline, the means of achieving the ultimate pleasure of liberation. Panthak is the harming attitude of lethargy or apathy. The ornaments of Devdutt are the subjects of the five senses. Under the influence of lethargy and infatuation with sensual pleasures the body annihilates the discipline. The bond of shackles is the inevitable interdependence of soul and the body. The king is the fruit of karma and his forces the various categories of karmas. Crime is the cause of the bondage of life-span. The nature's call of Dhanya is the natural needs of the human body without heeding to which the body becomes incapable of progressing on the spiritual path. Bhadra is the teacher who rebukes the practicer but is satisfied when a proper reason is given for the specific deed. The practicer explains that he has indulged in the act for the sole purpose of performing an essential duty and not because of any vested interest.
THE MESSAGE
Without food this body is not capable of observing the disciplines like meditation, self-analysis, and other practices needed on the path of liberation. As such an ascetic should nurture the body with the same attitude as Dhanya merchant did Vijaya thief.
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JNĀTĀ DHARMA KATHĀNGA SŪTRA
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