Bhagvana Mahavira

Author(s): Tulsi Acharya
Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati

Page 51

Kaivalya (Omniscience) and the Bhagavan's Sermons
5.
Utsarga Samiti-Disposal of excreta in a disciplined
way.
6. Discipline of the mental activities. Observance of silence.
7.
8. Control of physical actions.
The Householder's Way for the Practice of Religion
After having laid down a discipline for the monks, Bhagavan Mahāvīra laid down the rules of conduct for the householders also. He said that although the householders cannot be free from the responsibilities concerning the family, the society, the state etc., yet they should observe the following minor vows:
1.
Renunciation of gross violence. Renunciation of gross untruth.
2.
3. Renunciation of gross stealing.
4.
5.
43.
Continence.
To limit desires-to put a limit to possession of wealth etc. The householder should practise the following teachings in order to strengthen the abovementioned minor vows:
1. Confining oneself to a certain geographical area, one should not commit violence, etc. beyond it.
2. One should not consume things beyond a certain limit.
3. One should renounce things which are not necessary.
4.
One should practise equanimity.
5. One should put a limit even to routine engagements necessary for life.
6. One should remain absorbed in the self by fasting.
7. One should part with a portion of daily necessities, and offer them to ascetics.
Men benighted by false beliefs, attachments and indulgence were enlightened by Bhagawan Mahavira's call to practise right belief, unattachment and discipline. Thousands became ready to follow his path.