In Search Of Ultimate

Author(s): Vinod Kapashi
Publisher: Mahavir Foundation Publication

Page 4

In Search of the Ultimate
SELECTION FROM SCRIPTURES
(1) ACHARANGA SUTRA.
Acharanga Sutra is the first and foremost of all sacred books called AGAMS.
This is believed to be nearly 2,500 years old. This text has been written as told by Sudharma Swami (who died in 463 BC).
This book mainly deals with the code of conduct for Jain monks. The book is in 2 parts, the first part has got 9 lessons (out of which 8 are available now) the second part consists of 16 lessons. Some selected verses and passages are given here which, I believe, will appeal to every one.
SELECTED VERSES:
For the sake of one's own life, for the sake of fame, for seeking appreciation, invitation or reception; on the occasion of birth or other occasions; in search of liberation or in search of remedies for his misery man engages himself in sinful acts. You must know what these acts are.
The causes of birth and death (and misery in one's life) are the attachments to worldly pleasures and the causes of attachments to worldly pleasures are birth and death. (1/ 5/ 39)
As our body is born, plants are born. As we grow so plants grow. As we have reason (mind), so plants have reason. As our body is damaged when cut, so a plant is damaged when cut. As we need food, so plants need food. As we are mortal so plants are mortal.