________________
A
ULU
WIND
SOS
UW)
NINTH CHAPTER : THE BLISS OF HUMBLENESS
INTRODUCTION
20
The title of this chapter, Vinaya Samadhi is meaningful from numerous angles. Various aspects of the ascetic conduct have been discussed in details in the eighth and the earlier chapters. Now in this ninth chapter, making use of some pertinent examples, humbleness has been explained in order to teach the disciples how to behave with their elders in a courteous and disciplined manner. The word vinaya has a very wide meaning. In the Agams it has been used to represent various aspects of the ascetic conduct.
Prashna Vyakaran states that vinaya is an austerity and austerity is dharma, so it should always be practiced.
Inata Sutra has gone a step further and said that the root of dharma is vinaya and its ultimate fruit is liberation. It then divides vinaya into two categories-agaar vinaya or the duties of the laity and anagaar vinaya or the duties of the ascetic based on the five vows. Thus, here vinaya envelopes the complete codes of conduct.
Aupapatik Sutra divides vinaya into seven categories. One of these is called upachaar vinaya which means politeness in behavior. This includes-standing up when the guru comes, offer him salutations by joining palms, to serve him obediently, etc. The behavioral aspect of vinaya is to show respect, reverence and humbleness to the seniors.
USSSSSS01 It Lot SSSSSS
77979 37824: -4 1411 (9277 €810) Ninth Chapter : Vinaya Samahi (Ist Sec.) 386
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
