Essence of Jainism Part 02

Author(s): Kushalchandravijay
Publisher: 108 jain Tirth Darshan Trust

Page 49

in their dealings should be so good that others would not doubt, or hesitate to deal with them. If there is sincerity in conduct, fair trade practices will follow in natural course.
Purity of heart is the first condition to be fulfilled. With this end in view, we must cultivate in life the four noble sentiments of (a) friendship(maitri); (b) cheerfulness(pramod); (c) Compassion (Karuna) and (d) non-partiality or indifference (madhyastha bhavana).
THE CODE OF CONDUCT : (1) In exchange of money, we must give goods according to
the specifications (should not pass on goods inferior in
qualities as standard goods). (2) Adulteration should not be practised (3) We must deliver the goods on the due date. (4) We must make full payment for the value of the goods
purchased. (5) We return fully the deposits received, when demanded from
us. (6) We should repay the debts on the scheduled date. (7) If we are not able to clear off the debt in time for reasons
beyond our control, we should give proper explanation and must offer a satisfactory solution to the person concerned.
An Example of Jain Agarwal Trader : In ancient times, the Jain Mahajans (Jain merchants) enjoyed a great reputation. The example of Merchant Agarwal is worth knowing in this context.
in the times of King Kumarpal, an Agrarwal Vanik was caught for smuggling. He had put up with a Jain Vanik in Patan as a guest. Kumarpal was feared by his subjects. Being afraid, Agarwal Vanik admitted his offence and asked his host as to how he could be save from the clutches of the law. His host replied that there is no way out, but advised him to put a saffron Tilak on his forehead before visiting the royal court and hoped that perhaps, he might be saved thereby. Agarwal Vanik did so, when he went to the royal court.
Kumarpal thought how his co-religionist (sadharmik) be a suspect for committing such a crime and set him free, giving him the benefit of doubt. Agarwal Vanik was impressed by the respect
26