Bondage and Freedom

Author(s): Chitrabhanu
Publisher: Divine Knowledge Society

Page 90

But when the layers on the gourd peel off one after another, it will gradually recover its natural tendency to keep afloat. So, too the soul. Were it to get rid of the eight vices by acquiring eight corresponding virtues—nonviolence, truth, honesty, temperance, forgiveness, modesty, sincerity and generosity, it could unburden itself and regain its natural virtues of lightness and volatility.”
Having explained the four pillars of Jain philosophy I shall now get back to the prayer in which I have asked our conduct to be guided by Amity, Appreciation, Compassion and Equanimity.
By Amity we mean attainment of a mentality which would want to be friendly with and bear goodwill towards one and all.
Just as the dry bed of a lake is criss-crossed with a myriad crack because it is devoid of fresh water, similarly, a. religion that is not sweetened with the milk of human kindness is soon weakened by the cracks of internal dissensions...
Mere austerity may shrivel up a man's nature. Even as he does penance and practises renunciation, his heart must be full of love.
What supports this wide world: Surely not the much-trumpeted deeds of the blustering heroes but the silent sacrifice of the humble servers of humanity
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