________________
508 ]
| The Last Teaching of Lord Mahavira
(1) Kshama ( Forgiveness ), (2) Nirlobhata ( Un-greediness ), (3) Arjava (Modesty or simplicity', (4) Laghava (Humbleness or pridelessness ), (5) Mardava (Sweetness of Temper \,(6) Satyata (Truthfulness ), (7* Samyama (Self-control ), (8) Tapa (Penance), (9) Tyaga (Self-sacrifice), and (10) Brahmacharya ( Chastity ). With the help of this Dharma, having the above-mentioned ten qualities, the Jiva soul ) can go across the ocean of this world in the same way as an ant can go across a vast ocean upon which a bridge has been constructed. This world is an ocean of miseries; and it is not until a man is over-tired of living in this that he prepares himself for attainment of everlasting bliss. Freedom from miseries and attainment of everlasting bliss are however impossible to have without the help of Dharma. All other powers of this world, except the power of religion, are use·less in this respect. Just as a crippled man can go from one place to another, by climbing on the shoulders of a strong man, similarly, a Jiva ( soul ) crippled by his Karmas, can go to the region of Eternal Bliss by taking the help of Dharma, provided that, that Dharma is without any Nidana (Desire of reaping fruit or remunerative hankering )."
After this, Gautama Svami asked the Lord about the fifth and the sixth Aras of the Avasarpini Period, which tho Lord described to him from beginning to end. A detailed account of it has been given in the beginning of this book.
The Omniscient Lord, then, said to Gautama Svami, "Gautama, Go to Devasharma a Brahmana, who lives near by. He wants to receive spiritual instruction from you. Go and instruct him.” Thus ordered, Gautama Svami went to instruct the Brahmana in the vicinity and turned the current
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
