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ILICUT
EIGHTH CHAPTER : CULTIVATING CONDUCT
INTRODUCTION
Details about the conduct proper of an ascetic has been mentioned in chapters third and sixth. In the seventh chapter the discipline of speech has been discussed in details. In this eighth chapter titled Achar Pranidhi, directions have been given for remaining unaffected from attachment and aversion while sincerely moving towards the goal.
One meaning of the term Achar Pranidhi is—the methods of protecting the wealth that is conduct. Another meaning isindulgence in conduct, or to sincerely follow the codes of conduct. Laying emphasis on the second meaning Acharya Bhadrabahu has a said—“In this chapter the shraman is advised to control the leaning of his senses towards attachment and aversion with the rein of knowledge; because as an unbridled horse takes the rider on the wrong path, so do the senses if not disciplined; they push the practicer on the wrong path. (Dashavaikalik Niryukti 299)
To steer those debased senses on the graceful path of discipline, to keep control over passions and to refrain from activities like slumber, mockery, ill-speech, etc. are the important topics discussed in this chapter.
Many of the verses of this chapter encompass lofty ideals with eloquence, making them aphorisms. These contain forceful sermons for disciplining the senses.
According to Bhadrabahu Swami this chapter has been excerpted from the third section of Pratyakhyan Pravad, the ninth Purva.
SELE
श्री दशवकालिक सूत्र : Shri Dashavaikalik Sutra
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