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Non-possessiveness - a universal framework
contribution.”
When the villagers approached the other shop, they got a similar response. "First let the other shops make a donation. That is a bigger shop," they were told.
The distraught villagers went back and forth, but to no avail. Both did not budge from their respective positions. Finally, they said to Khetanji, “We are tired of going around in circles without any result. We have nothing more to say or ask.”
This brought about a sudden change in Khetanji mind. He began to reflect, "Oh! Why have I behaved like this? These people built their hopes depending on me. I was the son of a poor man once, today I am so rich. Money is ephemeral. Will I get such a noble opportunity ever again? I must not disappoint these villagers."
On an impulse, Khetanji took one cloth, a small pot and a twine in his hand and stepped down from the shop. He said, “I am donating my entire shop to you. What did I have once? Nothing. Today I have earned so much money and respect as well. I can open another shop anywhere else and earn once again."
The villagers were astounded. Khetanji did not enter his shop again. He opened another shop elsewhere. This is not just charity, it is renunciation of the highest order.
Man has amazing inner strength. When the impulse to renounce arises in him, it does not take him even a moment. It happens instantly. This is why Lord Mahāvīra never attached importance to possessions. His focus was always on the impulse of possessiveness.
The vow of non-possessiveness will yield positive results in lives to come, but for that, it must create an instant change in the present life style. Those who want a peaceful life and wish to spread joy must tread the path of non-possessiveness and nonviolence as stated in Jainism.
Non-possessiveness and non-violence are principles that
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