Book Title: ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 02
Author(s): International School for Jain Studies
Publisher: International School for Jain Studies
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याय परम
7. The universe is very huge and the man is so small that he has no point in being proud of
himself. 8. It is a very rare chance that one gets the knowledge of right path. Once it is attained one
should not miss this rare chance. 9. Because of our activities, there is constant inflow of karma, which covers our true nature. 10. This inflow of karma is to be stopped if we want to protect our purity. 11. The already accumulated karmas are to be shed. 12. The real nature of truth is to be realized.
With these reflections, the monk becomes steadfast in asceticism.
6.0 Summary From the aforesaid description of the conduct of a Jaina monk, it would be clear that asceticism is a form of pure spiritualism, which does not admit of any concession for worldly life. There is a contradiction between the spiritual life and mundane life, which is clearly brought out by what has been said above. The goal of asceticism is spiritual realization, for which an aspirant has to forsake physical comforts and undergo hardships.
The institution of Order of Jaina Monk is perhaps the oldest Order of the world. Its study is an important chapter in the history of asceticism. It may also be pointed out that even though the journey of spiritualism is individualistic yet the Jaina Tirthamkaras laid down the foundation of an order where the aspirants could help each other without interfering in their freedom. This is perhaps the secret of longevity of Jaina asceticism.
Suggested Readings 1. Sogani, Kamal Chand, Ethical Doctrines in Jainism, Pub. : Lalchand Hirachand Doshi,
Solapur. 2. Bhargava D.N, Jain Ethics, Pub. : Motilal Banarsi Dass, New Delhi. 3. S.B. Deo, History of Jain Monachism, Pune. 4. B.C. Law, Mahāvīra and his life and teachings, London. 5. H.L. Jain, Bharatiya Sanskrti Men Jaina Dharma Ka Yogadāna, Bhopal. 6. Acharya Mahaprajna:, Jaina Darsana: Manana aura Mimārsā, Ladnun
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STUDY NOTES version 5.0
