Bondage and Freedom

Author(s): Chitrabhanu
Publisher: Divine Knowledge Society

Page 87

“Did not man bleed mentally and spiritually to gratify his lust for acquisition and would he not attain serenity if he renounced it?" thought the Muni.
It is only human to desire, but the noblest desire for man should be to attain a state of “Desirelessness”
-when he can accept things as they come to him, and can look on indifferently when they leave him.
This ancient principle of limited possession is extremely significant and valuable in the context of the economic conditions prevailing in the world today. The object is to secure equitable distribution and economic stability for society. A social order based upon this principle of limited possession will certainly prevent unnecessary accumulation of wealth and its inseparable counterpart, poverty and wretchedness. It will lay the foundation of a welfare society -a modern term.
The principle of Aparigraha can guide every individual, society or nation in its positive efforts to enhance the happiness of mankind in general.
After having dealt with Nonviolence, Theory of Relativity, Nonacquisition, we now come to the last pillar on which Jainism rests.
“The Law of Karma" i.e. Deeds or Action DESTINY is shaped by deeds done during the previous birth as well as deeds done during this life. We