Essence of Jainism Part 02

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

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that a jain enjoyed in the eyes of the King. He confessed to his host that a Tilak of Jain though made with doubtful intention, could save him from punishment, how great would his benefit be if he was a ture jain. He changed his way of life. He grew to be a leader of his community. Following him, other members of the community also accepted Jainism.
Thought must be given how jains must have built up such a reputation as a community. Alas ! what we find to-day is a sad phenomenon of devaluation of a saffron-Tilak.
It is time we ask ourselves why as jains, we have lost respect in the eyes of the society ?
It is because we departed from high standard set by our ancestors for fair dealings, honesty and right conduct in life. What is basic is one's intention. If it is pure, progress on right path will be in natural course, to ensure better way of living with peace and equanimity in present, as well as future lives to follow, It will also earn prestige in social life.
How our ancestors made their mark in the society as men of integrity, not only for themselves but for the Jain Community as a whole, is evident from the great deeds of charity performed by Shri Vastupal and Shri Tejpal, which will command respect from any one, persuing what is enumerated below :
(A) JAIN ACTIVITIES OF CHARITY : (1) Constructed 1204 temples with pinnacles; (2) Repairs and renovation of 2300 Jain Temples; (3) 500 ivory Sinhasans (Royal Seats) and 500 Samovsarans, (4) 24 ivory Chariots; (5) 2000 Shakh Ghatikas completed; (6) 984 Pausadh-Shalas; (7) 21 Acharya padvis were celebrated; (8) Served food to 1500 monks and nuns daily; (9) Performed 12.5 pilgrims to Siddhagiri (Palitana).
(B) NON-JAIN ACTIVITIES OF CHARITIES : (1) 3002 temples of Mahadev; (2) 64 Mosques; (3) 84 lakes;
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