First Steps to Jainism Part 1

Author(s): Sancheti Asso Lal, Manakmal Bhandari
Publisher: Sancheti Trust Jodhpur

Page 68

54 First Steps to Jainism
1.
(vii) Reflection of Influx (Asrava Bhavna)-This is third fundamentals
discussed in the previous chapter involving entry of karma into the
soul. (viii) Reflection of prevention (Sanvar Bhavna)– This is fifth fundamental
discussed earlier. (ix) Reflection of Separation (Nirjara)- This is the sixth fundamental
discussed in the previous chapter. Reflection of Universe (Lok Bhavna)-To contemplate upon the nature of the Universe with its different constituents as discussed in Chapter
One. (xi) Reflection of difficulty in Right Path (Bodhi Durlabh Bhavna)-This
requires one to reflect on the difficulty with which one acquires
Right Knowledge, Right Vision and Right Conduct. (xii) Reflection of Right Path (Dharm Bhavna)– To reflect on the true
nature of religion of nonviolence, self-control and penance.
84. Discarding the body (Sallekhana or Samadhi death)-Lastly, Jain religion prescribed that the saints or laity should meet death boldly and bravely. Indeed, considerable importance is attached to the way one dies and it has been prescribed that having led the life of Right Conduct, a true follower should welcome death. This is done through observance of Sallekhana or vow of Samadhi death, and this is something distinctive about Jain way of dying.
85. When the body is no longer able to perform its duties, when death is imminent and certain due to inescapable calamity or disease, to relinquish the body willingly is Samadhi death or Sallekhana vow. This is to be distinguished from suicide which is done out of despair and fear of life and leads to fruitless death (akam maran) leading to further bondage of the soul. Sallekhana is to be practised with complete composure without attachment or aversion, with pure mind, renouncing all sins and asking and giving forgiveness to all. Such death is called fruitful death (Sakam maran) and reduces the bondage of soul.
86. Even today, 2500 years after Lord Mahaveera, Sallekhana is practised by number of saints and laymen and it is the heartfelt