Jain Digest 2002 07 Vol 21 No 03

Author(s): Federation of JAINA
Publisher: USA Federation of JAINA

Page 23

Darshanachar.... (cont)
induced to realize the importance of truth. Pratishtha Mahotsav, induced to reali processions, conventions, cultural programs, exhibitions and other displays, giving awards, distribution of publications and other gifts to the people, participation in the religious functions are the different modes of Prabhävanä. The purpose is to make favorable
These eight aspects are vital to attainment of the right perception or Samyakuva on which Jainism lays all possible emphasis. The reason is that it is impossible to have the proper insight without gaining the right perception. The knowledge obtained without gaining the right perception is therefore termed as Ajnän. It should be noted that the term Äjnàn' is not the same as ignorance. It means wrong or misdirected knowledge. Jainism lays down three types of Ajnän. The knowledge obtained by intellect without gaining the right perception is termed as Mati-ajnän: that obtained from books etc. without the right perception is termed as Shrut-ajnän; and acquisition of Avadhijnän in absence of the right perception is termed as Vibhanginan
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ward appearance. Such absence of disaffection also is a part of
also is a part of Nirvichikitsa.
4) The fourth aspect is Amudhaditthia or Amudhadrishti. It means not to be influenced or swayed by outward shows, displays etc. One may happen to witness a splendid procession of some sect, which is not based on truth. It is possible that he may be impressed by such a show and may think that the Jain performances are rather dull and dry. That would tend to shake his faith. This aspect therefore lays down that his conviction of the true faith should be so strong that he would not be unduly influenced by such outward shows and displays, however glamorous they may be.
5) The fifth aspect is Uvavuha or Upabruhan. It means ador- ing the virtues of others. That covers appreciating even the small qualities so as to encourage the persons concerned. Such a healthy encouragement works as an incentive that helps in raising the faith of such persons. But that should never verge towards undue praise. Otherwise, it would amount to flattery and that has to be avoided under all circumstances.
6) The sixth aspect is Thirikaran or Sthirikaran. It means stabilization. The unflinching faith has been mentioned above while discussing Nirvichikitsa. The difference between Nirvichikitsa and Sthirikaran lies in the fact that the former deals with one's own faith, while the latter deals with stabilizing the faith of others. That can be done by providing the right information or by otherwise extending help in understanding the true essence. Religious classes, training camps, bringing out publications, audiovisual discussion, study circles, discourses, seminars etc. are helpful in this respect. The various types of encouragement mentioned in the fifth aspect also helps in stabilizing the faith and can therefore be considered the parts of this aspect.
7) The seventh aspect is Vachchhal or Vätsalya. Literally it means affection. But it also denotes sharing, caring, loving, helping etc. The person having the right perception would have innate affection for those belonging to the true faith. He would therefore try to help those, who are in distress or are any way afflicted. Such help can take the form of financial, medical or educational aid. That needs to be extended secretly so that the person getting the aid is not embarrassed in availing the same. The help can also be extended in solving their problems or in redress of the grievances etc. Swamivätsalya, health fair and collection of clothes for distribution among the poor and needy are illustrative of such help.
8) The last aspect is Pabhävane or Prabhävanä. It means raising the esteem for the faith. That can be done by undertaking the activities that would make favorable impression. Thereby, the people can be attracted towards the true faith and they can be
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