Jain Journal 1973 07

Author(s): Jain Bhawan Publication
Publisher: Jain Bhawan Publication

Page 41

JULY, 1973
35
rapidly with the reduction of attachment in worldy affairs and strengthens the stablility of mind. It is why Jaina śāstras lay emphasis on both types of knowledge, one to earn livelihood and the other to attain eternal bliss and mental peace.
Right Conduct (Samyak Cāritra): Conduct on the moral and ehtical path after accepting the five vows (Ahimsā, Satya, Asteya, Brahmacarya and Aparigrah) with strict adherence is known as the Right conduct. Jainism teaches that Right conduct involves the observance of five vows as stated above, five Samitis3 (Iryā, Bhāșa, Eşaņā, Ādāna Nikşepa and Utsarga) and three Guptis“ (Mana, Bacana and Kāya). According to Jaina philosophy highest moral life is the only sure means of the elevation of soul and its eventual emancipation and with it the central truth of morality lies in complete abstinence from injury to anyone else. The rules for observance of right conduct are of two types, (i) those for beginners or householders which are comparatively easy and are known as Aņu-yratas, and (2) those for the more spiritually advanced (Jaina seers and monks) which are more difficult and known as Mahā-vratas. We develop our real nature by controlling and eventually removing the passions especially anger, pride, deceitfulness and greed. This is done gradually through stages of development known as Gunasthānas.
Great is the power of Purity and Truth. The ten aspects of religion -Supreme forgiveness, Humility, Sraightforwardness, Truth, Contentment, Self-control, Austerity, Renunciation, Possessionlessness and Chastity or Self-absorption are of eternal value, guidence and inspiiation. We can reach God-hood through them for they negate the sins and passions of anger, pride, deceipt, greed, etc., A true Jaina is he who lives a true moral life. By his life based on love and sympathy, adjustment, non-violence, self-denial and self-sacrifices he not only elevates his own soul but contributes in the making up of a healthy and peaceful society and environment conducive to general spiritual progress.
Right faith, Right knowledge and Right conduct three together known as Jaina Trinity (Ratna Traya) lead to the salvation of soul, but in the absence of any one of them emancipation of soul is impossible.
3
Samiti means conduct with full conscience and carefulness. It is regarding movement, speech, food, taking up and putting down things and meeting nature's call. Gupti means control over self. It is of three types : control over Mind, Speech and Body.