Book Title: Atmanandji Jainacharya Janmashatabdi Smarakgranth
Author(s): Mohanlal Dalichand Desai
Publisher: Atmanand Janma Shatabdi Smarak Trust
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Jainism a Universal Religion It has been alleged by several gentlemen of light and learning that Jainism is a monastic religion and is not fit for a worldly man. But a close study of Jainism will reveal that the said allegation does not stand a moment's scrutiny. The duties of a monk and the duties of a layman are quite distinct, definite as well as classified. The former have to renounce the world and to undergo rigorous discipline and severe austerities; while it is not so with the latter. They can enjoy this world and can follow this religion at the same time. They can achieve salvation in as much as a monk can, by following the three cardinal principles of Jainism i. e. Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct. This means, all can follow and practise Jainism and attain emancipation, which consists in the annihilation of all the Karmas.
To put it briefly, Jainism is not a religion of impracticable moraic creeds and stereotyped dogmas as many suppose it to be. It is an intensely practical religion which insists upon living the graduated rules of life set up for the house-holder as well as the ascetic.
4:62.
[ Shree Atmaramji
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