Basic Principles Of Jainism

Author(s): Narayan Lal Kachhara
Publisher: Narayan Lal Kachhara

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The object of this vow is to snatch moments of detachment from worldly affairs, its cares and worries, love and hatred and above all the attainment of equanimity of mind and concentration at the time of meditation. Some writers have associated puja and other rituals with
3) Prosadhopavasa
Among the austerities prescribed by Jainism, fasting is the most conspicuous: the Jainas have developed it to a kind of art and reached a remarkable proficiency in it. Fasting has to be observed on the 8th (astami) day and 14th day (chaturdasi) of each half of the lunar month. The Digambara texts require that the fast should commence from the noon preceding the date of fast and continue till the mid-day following the fasting day that is for a total period of 48 hours. Most of the Svetambara writers mention a period of twenty-four hours only as the period of fast on the aforesaid days. The fast may be observed in one's own home, a temple, or the place where an ascetic is putting up. During the period of fast, there would be not only a relinquishment of all kinds of pleasures of the senses but also of participation in the house-hold affairs including trade and business. The day should be spent in worship and meditation including reading scriptures. The evenings and nights should be spent in Samayika and reading of scriptures. Samantabhadra says that fasting means abstinence from food, drink, tasting and licking (of some juice). There are three modes of fasting. The best mode (uttama) is complete fast or abstinence as aforesaid. The middle course (madhyama) is one in which drinking water is permitted. The least satisfactory (jaghanya) course is that taking one meal only during the day. The Svetambara texts have laid down that on fasting days, aharaka (taking of food), deha-satkara (bodily care), maithuna (sexual intercourse) and vyapara (trades or occupations) may be observed fully or partially according to the capacity of the layman.
4) Vaiyavritya
This vow which is also known as atithi-samvibhaga vrata consists in offering alms to an ascetic; it also includes massaging his feet and removal of his ailments, as also rendering such service as is necessary to remove obstacles in his path of penance and renunciation. Sravakas should also offer food and other articles of need to hungry, poor and the deprived. The vow is to be practiced as a matter of religious duty (dharma).
It will be seen that the Jaina ethics are founded on the principle of Ahimsa and love for all living beings. While a layman ought to have a rational faith in Jainism, his daily conduct must exhibit the true ideas of non violence and truth. In his dealings, he must be upright to the core and practice charity not only by giving but also by cultivation of non-attachment towards worldly possessions. He must be constantly aware of his duties towards himself and to the society. His life as a layman should pave the way to the ultimate goal of self-realization. Possession of perfect faith and knowledge should not be a matter of mere theory but should be constantly reflected in daily conduct.
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