ISJS Jainism Study Notes E5 Vol 03

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

Page 219

the vows fully. However the householders or lay-people are not able to practice the vows fully. So Tirthamkara s and ascetics have laid down the regimen of minor vows (aņuvrata) to maximize the auspicious manifestation of soul (resulting in comforts, pleasures and heavenly happiness) and minimize the inauspicious manifestation of the soul. Accordingly the Jain code of conduct emphasizes prevention (which can be considered as synonymous with stoppage (influx) or self restraint (sanyama) of sickness /diseases. However when inflicted with pain Jains recommend penance (tapa) for dissociation of karmas /pain. Following verse from Daśavaikālika-sūtra describes this doctrine of Jain code of conduct.
Dhammo mangala mukkiţthaṁ ahimsā samjamo tavol Devā vi taṁ namaṁsanti jassa dhamme sayā manolk
The concept of aura (leśyā in Jainism) is affected by our karmas and practice of code of conduct. Omniscient has pure aura while a cruel person has black aura. A good person forms a protective aura around his body, a sort of energetic immune system that defends & guards him from all negative energy (thoughts, deeds or words) & diseases. When we learn to control our aura we can keep it purified (free of hatred, ignorance & desire) & we will be capable of self-healing. Reading your aura can also encourage you to discover your spiritual cures & purposes in life. The leśyā tree (see picture at the end) in Jain temples and literature beautifully describe the six states (or kinds of leśyā) and the resulting actions thereof of mind, body and speech. We should aim to have dispositions as per leśyās 4 to 6 (auspicious and pure) and to give up dispositions as per leśyās 1 to 3.
Treatment /healing process The code of conduct and philosophy given above is a mix of faith healing as well as backed by modern medical system. Faith here relates to the metaphysical considerations and conduct relate to modern medical systems. The following paragraphs briefly describe the lifestyle to be observed to keep one free from diseases and cure them when inflicted.
1. Lead a stress free life as they (stress) generate activities and vibrations of body, speech
and mind resulting in bondage of karmas and hence pain. This implies leading a well balanced systematic daily routine to perform one's duties and giving up activities which cause stress and strains (e.g. give up the seven bad habits called vyasanas in Jainism
2 Daśavaikālika-sūtra 1.1
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