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In Search of the ultimate
(2)
SELECTION FROM DASAVAIKALIKA SUTRA
Selected VersesFirst Lesson
A religion with virtues like non-violence, self-control and austerity is the | highest and best. Even Gods bow to those whose mind is always set in religion.
As the bee drinks the "Juice" from flowers of the tree without hurting the flowers, so a monk free from all bondage takes only necessary food and shelter, only from those people who are devout and charitable.
We should accept, without causing the slightest trouble to anybody, like bees from the flowers, whatever is readily available.
Wise monks with self-control, accept their needs only from different but smaller sources. (Not everything from just one source) Thus I say.
How can he observe the monk-hood if he can't get rid of his desires and has surrendered himself to the thoughts (of worldly pleasures) and then who feels guilty at every step.
Second Lesson
He who does not like dresses, perfumery, jewellery, women and other luxuries, because he has not got them, is not the true renouncer.
He who ignores temptations and favourite pleasures and willingly gives up these pleasures is the true renouncer.
