Jain Journal 2005 10

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

Page 14

S.P PADMA PRISADJUNCULIRL IS DEPICTED IN THEIR FOLK LITERATURE 07
This song expresses not only the devotion, dedication and eagerness of the boy towards worship, but also denotes another subtle point in the style of worship. He prepared a bouquet not a garland ! Garlands are put around the neck. In Jaina way of worship nothing should be put on the statue of Jina, as he is aparigrahi or possesser of nothing. So garland cannot be used. Instead a bouquet could be beautifully placed at the feet of the lord. In Kannada the actual original word here is 'chendu' i.e. the ball. That could still be better placed in the space between two feet.
Treating saints with all devotion is another tradition in Indian culture. It is followed by the Jains also. Feeding saints, serving the saints etc. are called 'vaiyavrtva' in Jaina philosophy. It is believed that if saints are fed at home, that home will be peaceful and gets prosperity. With all sincerity and eagerness, the Jain householders (śrāvaka) wait for the arrival of muni (saint of highest cadre), make arrangements to feed him. It is a matter of pride and satisfaction. A folk song gives the picture of preparation and process of feeding the saint.
"I have kept the seats washed filtered warm water is ready and flowers are brought to worship him!
At whose home the saint is fed ? At my brother's--who is great to the clan, There goes the feeding of the saints'.
Feeding the Digambara saint is a delicate job. Nothing should happen to disturb his vows. Food should be absolutely clean and pure. It should be fully of non-violent category and of that nature. He takes food only once a day. Sometimes he takes food after fasting for 1-2 or 3 days or even more. Even then if he sees some dust or germ in the food, or hears an animal cry, ctc., he gives up taking food. He doesn't take even water till his next feeding time. So feeding a Jina Digambara saint is a serious and cautious job which needs the following of so many subtle details. These folk songs have behind them that seriousness and dedication.