ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 02

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

Page 367

INTERNATION
SCHOOL
OF
SELF STUDY IS THE
SUPREME AUSTERITY
पाध्याय परम
STUDIES
etc., is real happiness. Jaina pathfinders stressed more on righteousness and virtuous conduct than miracles.
Although an aspirant or Yogi who progresses steadily on the path of liberation, acquires certain labdhi, riddhis and vidya, (extra-ordinary powers) he has been cautioned not to exercise them for it will deviate him from the path of accomplishment. Man in his quest for happiness and perfection has searched the atom and researched almost on everything. In the universe, he soared the skies and measured the oceans and mountains, scientific and technological advancements have made the entire world look like a global village. He has invented one dreadful weapon after another and has virtually brought the world to the edge of destruction. This is in total contrast with what the ancient saints and seers practiced and preached.
In olden days they also have done research work, but the focus was on the subject and not on the object. Their research was subjective and spiritually oriented. Through spirituality they discovered the hidden truths inside them-selves, others and the universe. The Bhagavati Sūtra records many incidents of soul power. It says that when the powers of the soul are awakened, it can cognize anything and everything in the universe, and all the secrets of the universe are unfolded.6
Regarding demerit i.e. sin; the Bhagavati Sūtra has made thought-provoking revelations. 1.8, 1.9, 12.2, 12.5 etc., of the text reveal that sin is what binds and burdens the soul, distorts the latent potential of happiness and freedom and deprives the soul of them. Sin is not determined by an activity, but by the attitude of an ignorant, unrealized soul steeped in delusion.
When Kalodai enquires why is the fruit of sin inauspicious, Lord Mahāvīra is said to have revealed that when one consumes tasty food mixed with poison, the consequences are dreadful, so also sinful activities allure the soul but its consequences are inauspicious and sorrowful. On the other hand when one takes the food that is bitter and medicinal, he enjoys good health, although the taste is not fulfilling. So also all auspicious activities of merit i.e. Punya seem to be difficult to accomplish but its fruit is auspicious.7
6 Introduction to Bhagavati Sūtra Volume 4, Pg 40
Bhagavati Sūtra 7.10
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STUDY NOTES version 5.0