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The Letter of Six Fundamentals (Appendix-II) therefore states at the outset that those Fundamentals have been termed by the enlightened persons as the abodes of right perception. Towards its end it is emphasized, "The spiritually-oriented people would find them accurate and totally convincing. These Fundamentals are beyond doubts, and the discernment arising therefrom is meant for realizing one's true nature." The deeper one dwells, the more would he realize the truth underlying them. That would give rise to right perception, and by resorting to it one can proceed on the path of liberation. What is really required for liberation is to know and adopt the right path. There need not be any difference of opinions or views about it.
Jäti Veshano Bhed Nahi, Kahyo Märga Jo Hoy; Sädhe Te Mukti Lahe, Emän Bhed Na Koy.
There is no discrimination of caste or attire in the said path; whoever pursues it, attains liberation; there is no difference of opinion therein. (107)
Explanation & Discussion:
The pupil had raised the issue of caste, creed, and attire in which one can attain liberation. The Guru tells him that all those aspects are immaterial. Even a person belonging to a so-called lower caste can attain liberation. For instance, Metäraj Muni, who was a Ganadhar of Lord Mahavir, was raised in a very low family. Harikeshi Muni mentioned in Uttaradhyayan Sutra also came from a very low caste.
In this connection it would be interesting to point out that Jainism admits the possibility of attaining liberation in different traditions. Sthänäng Sutra mentions 15 types of liberated souls, depending upon their last life. One of them relates to those coming from the female sex, another from a lay life and another from non-Jain tradition. Shrimad has therefore stated on several occasions that one need not insist on being called a Jain. The first part (Stanzas 97-107) of this chapter dealing with the path of liberation ends here.
Kashäyani Upashäntatä, Mätra Moksha Abhilash; Bhave Khed Antar Dayä, Te Kahie Jijnäs.
One, whose defilements are calmed down, who aspires only for liberation, who has disaffection for embodiment and holds compassion within, is called a truth seeker. (108)
Explanation & Discussion:
