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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"O! Children of immortality! Realize, arise and liberate yourself,
Your destination is far off, The path is full of obstacles, The resources are limited,
And so is time, hence Be not negligent even for a while.
-Said Mahāvīra.
Chapter XI is reverence to the Learned and it describes the characteristics of undisciplined and disciplined aspirants. Verse 11.3 informs that due to pride, anger, carelessness, disease and laziness one cannot acquire knowledge. People with the following eight qualities are worthy of acquiring knowledge. Not laughing too much, one with subdued senses, not revealing others' secrets, being chaste, not having a tainted character, not indulging in relishing tasty food, not having a short temper and one who has immense love for truth, 10 such people alone can learn and absorb the teachings of the wise and holy. Likewise the text enumerates the 14 qualities of an undisciplined ascetic who is not worthy of learning and nirvānal1 and 15 qualities of a disciplined ascetic worthy of nirvana 12
Chapter XV is titled Sabhikkhu, i.e. 'He is a true ascetic' and it enumerates the virtues of a true ascetic. A Bhiksu is one who is devoted to the contemplation of the self, detached, selfrestrained, equanimity, spiritually wise and materially selfless, dispassionate, bears all afflictions patiently, does not expect anything from anybody eats less than required and is committed to the practice of the three jewels. Chapter XVI is related to the practice of chastity. Chapter XVII is in contrast with Chapter XV for it enumerates the qualities of a fake and hypocritical monk who is idle, indolent and least interested in spiritual welfare. Again chapter XXVII too discusses the above theme of Pāpaśramana and with the illustration of the wicked bullocks informs the readers of the bitterness faced by a teacher whose disciples are arrogant, lazy and undisciplined.
10 Uttaradhyayana-sutra 8.17
Ibid. Vol.I by Hastimalji Maharaj P. 269 12 lbid. 11.4,5
STUDY NOTES version 5.0
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