ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 02

Author(s): International School for Jain Studies
Publisher: International School for Jain Studies

Page 334

SELF BUDYIS THE
राय परम
Chapter XXXVI is about living and non-living and is the longest of all the chapters containing 268 verses. It begins with a mention of the universe (Loka) and its six constituents, viz principle of motion (Dharmāstikāya), principle of rest (Adharmāstikaya), space, (Akāsāstikāya), time (kāla), matter (Pudgalāstikaya) and living beings (Jivāstikāya) and goes to elaborate each one in detail. The discussion on non-living and matter begins with verse 10 and ends with verse 47 and the elaboration on living things begin with verse 48 and ends vith 249. The characteristics of liberated and bonded beings are enumerated at great length. The 249th verse says that knowing the nature of living and non-living, one must logically understand them from different aspects and exercise self-restraint. Thus progressing from right knowledge, one is advised to have faith in the above revelations and take to rational conduct in order to realize and release oneself. The chapter concludes with a note on Sallekhanā i.e. the art of dying. It discusses the contemplations associated with death that are to be nurtured to make death meaningful and life successful.
The last verse of this chapter of the Uttarādhyayana-sūtra, records thus the enlightened allknowing omniscient of the Jñātra-vanía expounded the above teachings for the welfare of all living beings so that they may all accomplish and manifest their true potential and achieve eternal happiness and bliss. Thus we see that Jainism starts with a pessimistic note, progresses through optimism and culminates in pragmatism. The Uttaradhyayana-sūtra gives a comprehensive picture of Jaina asceticism and śramanic culture, besides Jaina spirituality, beliefs and practices. It is indeed a great work of Ardhamāgadhi Prakrit and is an immortal song of the soul.
STUDY NOTES version 5.0
Page 321 of 385