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JAIN JOURNAL : Vol-XXXVI, No. 3 January, 2002
Tests for validity of exceptions
An exception made without valid reason is technically called darpapratisevana and the one made with valid reason is called kalpapratisevanā.17 The ultimate test of validity is whether a specific course of action, a rule or an exception, conduces to the ultimate goal of liberation or not.
Right Faith, Right Knowledge and Right Conduct are the three pillars of Jainism. Since all the three are interrelated, any Conduct which goes against Right Knowledge and Right Faith cannot be considered Right. Those exceptions which neither go against Right Faith nor in the long run obstruct Right Knowledge fall under the category of kalpa-pratisevanā. Exceptions in the rules of procurement of food during famine etc. fall under this category.
Another test of valid exception is ahimsā. Before making an exception a monk must carefully consider whether the particular exception would lead in the long run to greater ahimsā or not.
It must be understood that these tests also apply to basic precepts or rules. Under unusual situations, when observance of rules is neither possible nor in any way beneficial, dogmatically sticking to them would fall under darpa-pratisevanā. But it is always safe to follow the rules, since it is the natural way, the royal road. The path of Apavāda or exceptions is difficult like walking on the razor's edge and, though apparently easy, is beset with great dangers. Only a person well-versed in scriptures, the rules and subrules of monastic conduct, and having a good knowledge of the variables governing the exceptions, can prescribe or practise exceptions safely. Time, place, specific situation, and individual strength and temperament are the variables. Since such extensive knowledge of the canonical texts and the variables is not possible for all, the Acharyas have laid down rules and exceptions in detail for the guidance of those who lack such knowledge. Ultimately, the individual is the best judge of the path to be chosen, and much depends upon his discrimination and sincerity,
Conclusion
Rightly has it been said : 'An exception proves the rule'. Rules and exceptions are the obverse and reverse of the same coin. Under certain
16. Upadhyaya Amarmuni, op.cit, p. 9-10. 17. Malvania, op.cit., p. 55-56.
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