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According to the descriptions in Agams, before accepting Sunlekhana, al seeker thinks about his physical condition thus--
Now my body is very weak and my strength and vigour have depleted. I am able to sit, stand or move only through the strength of my will. Even these activit discomfort to me. It is difficult to perform even the daily chores with this en Instead of being helpful in religious activities, this body is becoming an impediment. There is no use maintaining such body. It is better to abandon it.
When this desire is expressed hetore the guru and he grants permission by formally consecrating the vow of Sanickhanu-Santharu, the seeker commences Sanichana following the proper procedure. The Procedure of Sanlekhana
The seeker first of all gradually reduces the food intake and further emaciates his body. At the same time he also gradually weakens passions.
Food here includes ashan (staple food), paun (liquids), khadya (common laws, and srudya (tasty food). Depending upon the condition of his body the scehur gradually reduces his food intake and finally stops it altogether to await death. At the momento! death he remains equanimous or in meditation.
The Period of Sanlekhana
To fix the duration of Sunlckhana is a difficult task. In Antakriddusha Suru itself some seekers got liberated after a month long Sanlekhana whereas Arjunamali did so after 15 days long Sunlekhanu. In modern times also some seekers abandon their earthly body after a days long Sanlekhana and some after four days only.
However, in ancient scriptures like Pravachanasaroddhar it is mentioned that the maximum, medium and minimum duration of Sanlekhana are 12 years, 12 months and 6 months respectively. The procedure of Sanlekhung has also been given in greater detail.
In this short article it is neither desired nor possible to give complete details but it is true that a detailed description throws greater light on the purity and importance of Sailekhanu.
At the same time this is also revealed that through emaciating the body and passions and as a consequence of disciplining the mind, a seeker attains the state of purity or absence of perversion (vices) and abandons the body peacefully with equanimity.
Precautions in Accepting Sanlekhana
It is necessary for a seeker to observe some precautions before commencing the practice of Sanlekhana. If he has commenced the practice of Sanlekhana, started fasting and also weakened the body and passions, but the karmas determining life-span are still
Antakriddasha Mahima
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