Jain Journal 2013 07

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

Page 13

JAIN JOURNAL: VOL-XLVIII, NO. 1-IV JULY 2013-JUNE 2014
should be done in the morning and in the evening. He should check up whether he is developing good qualities. If he has committed any mistake he should repent for the same so that such mistakes do not recur.
5. Kāyotsarga : This literary means abandonment of body. It is done in a standing or sitting posture of meditation. This helps in keeping the mind under control. It is said. “Just as fire fanned by powerful winds destroys heaps of firewood in no time, so also the fire of meditation destroys heaps of Karmas in no time.” (Dhyāna-Śatak 101).
Pratyakhyana : A Śrāvaka should take some vows everyday to purify his life. The aim of life is to realise the distinction between body and soul. The soul is everlasting but the body is perishable.
Through Pratyākhāyana we develop qualities of self and abandon the negative traits which hamper our spiritual progress.
Jaina Art of Living :
Jainism is a living religion. There are numerous monks and nuns and nearly ten million laities continuing the tradition, following virtually the same path prescribed by Jainas. Though the path of monks and nuns is very difficult, the path prescibed for the householders is much simpler. Here the stress is laid on simplicity and nobility. They should lead a life full of virtues and should keep away from the six vices. This practice has resulted in harmony and peace in individual and family life. Due to this, even in the modern age. Jaina laity practice complete vegetarianism and do not take any intoxicants. They are also socially councious and run a large number of Charitable Institutions for the cause of education, medical benefits and for service to the downtrodden.