Book Title: Aspects of Brahmanical Influence On Jaina Mythology
Author(s): Shaktidhar Jha
Publisher: Bharat Bharti Bhandar

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Page 240
________________ 222 Aspects of Brahmanıcal Influence on the Jalna Mythology privileges as enumerated by Jinasena are (i) Atz-bala-vidyā, (ii) Kulavadhı, (1u) Varnottamatta, (v) Srştjadhikārtā, (vi) Vyavahareśrta, (v1) Avadhyatda, (vin) Adand yatda, (1x) Manarhata and (x) Praja-sambandhantara 1 Atz-bala-oidya" This is the first of the ten privileges of a Brahmana. Jina. sena means by the phrase that a Brahmana boy should undertake the study of the sciences in his infancy Otherwise, there is every danger of his falling prey to the false teachings of the so-called Brāhmaṇas In other words, what Jinasena intends to state is that a Brāhmana-boy should begin study comparatively at an early age than the members of the other twice-born classes Thus the theory advanced by the author of the MP is in perfect conformity with that of the Brahmanical authors who have likewise proclaimed that a Brahmana boy should start his studentship in as carly an age as possible. 87 2. Kulavadh298 This refers to the preservation of one's family traditions; in its absence, a Brāhmana, with his lost duty peculiar to his famıly, will deflect to another family The idea expressed under this head is that a Brāhmana should discharge his duties in accordance with his family traditions 09 3. Varnottamato a100 This constitutes the privilege of the Brahmana. The meaning is that a Brahmana, by his poble conduct, should establish the superiority of his class over the other classes 96 MP 40 178-180 97 Manu, for example, enjoins that the initiation of a Brāhmana (boy) who desires proficiency in sacred lore should take place in the fifth (year after conception) II 37. 98 MP 40-181 99 This guarded instruction is in perfect aceping with the oft-repeated Brahmawcal, especially thc Alahābhārala ir junction that a Brāhmana must fulfl his class-obligations It is not unfrequently hat a Brāhmand, neglectful of his prescribed duties, is threatened with dire consequences here and hereafter Sec, for example, MBh XII 02 4. 100, MP 40 182-84.

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