________________
The flame of avarice
55
of non-possessiveness completely and not just at a superficial level. Having conquered his desire for possessions, he will see no difference between a king and a beggar, the rich and the poor. On the other hand, the one who feigns simplicity but favours the rich and is enamoured by their wealth has obviously not left behind his own possessive nature. For him, grass and gold are yet not the same. One who is detached is not impressed by the display of wealth. It is he who makes an impact on the world by his chaste actions and pure thoughts.
Unlike the ascetic, a householder who dwells within the confines of society cannot renounce all possessions. Yet, he must limit his desires, his actions and his needs to the bare minimum. He must also learn to limit his habits of eating, dressing, owning property, even raising pets and such other worldly traits.
Complete renunciation is the framework of an ascetic's existence and to set a limit on desires is that of the layperson's. To set a limit means to give up excesses that cross the boundaries of necessities.
One who can give up possessions or even limit them is a true aspirant.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
