Book Title: ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 03
Author(s): International School for Jain Studies
Publisher: International School for Jain Studies
View full book text
________________
small objects of use, which are to be limited by the individual. A list of twenty-six items of use, which require control, is given in the text. It would be worthwhile to mention some of them such as: (i) towels for daily use (ullanīya-vidhi-parimāņa) (ii) Tooth-paste, brush etc. (danta- dhāvana-vidhi-parimāņa) (iii) herbs etc. to keep hair cool and clean (phala-vidhiparimāņa) (iv) use of water for bathing (majjana- vidhi parimāņa) (v) paste etc. to keep the skin smooth (uvatana-vidhi-parimāņa) (vi) linen and garments (vastra-vidhi-parimāņa) (vii) cosmetics such as sandal wood, saffron etc. (vilepana-vidhi-parimāņa) (vii) use of flowers (puşpa-vidhi-parimāņa) (ix) use of ornaments (ābhūşaņa-vidhi-parimāņa) (x) seets, confectionary and other delicacies (bhakașaņa-vidhi-parimāņa) and many others such as shoes, chappals, sandals, modes of conveyance such as horse cart, motor car, beds, tables, chairs etc. This detailed list gives us an idea of how such as self-control can be help in both environment-protection and anti-consumeristic drive. Observance of these limits would be the best way of showing our eco-friendliness and concern for human welfare. It should however be noted that the aforesaid list is not to be understood just in the literal sense but only in real sense.
Again, to reinforce the essence of the aforesaid ideas of the above vows, in the eight vow of the householder i.e. anarthadaņda-viramāņa-vrata, there is a clear guidance for avoidance of mindless and unlimited accumulation of objects of consumption and their limitless use of showing our desires and attachment of accumulated objects which may be instrumental in provoking a violent attitude.
This brief account of Jaina householder's vows suggest that in his daily routine the householder has to be cautions in his outward discipline as well as in controlling his desires and attachments and to limit his possessions.
The Jaina texts also have reference where the well-to-do Srāvakas (householders) distribute their wealth and possessions if they cross their set limits. The Śrāvaka-pratikramaņa-sūtra of Śvetāmbaras and the Ratnakaranda-śrāvakācāra of Digambaras present more or less similar pictures of a householder's life as it ought to be.
Before I conclude, I would like to mention some fundamental presumptions of icchaparimāņa. Firstly, the source of happiness and peace lies within the individual not outside him. Secondly external possessions are only meant to be used and not to be owned. The
STUDY NOTES version 5.0
Page 125 of 273
