Book Title: Jain Legend Vol 3
Author(s): Hastimal Maharaj, Shuganchand Jain, P S Surana
Publisher: Hastimal Maharaj Shugan C Jain P S Surana
View full book text
________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Decay in the capacity of rama as and people in general to endure physical and mental afflictions as a result of changing times.
Effect of Hu d -avasarpi era: As a result of this monks following the true path of spiritual purification gradually switched over to the path supporting lax conduct. They thus became more interested and promoted the external rituals involving material offerings as religious rituals rather than practicing and preaching the true path of spiritual purification.
Effect of inauspicious planets i.e. inauspicious planets or Bhasmgraha (constellation of destruction).
Accepting the religious rituals of other religion as its (rama a) own to protect the changeover and ill effects on their own (rama a) followers. There are many incidences recorded when Jains, under the strong influence of prevailing Buddhist, aiva and Vai ava religions started to organise large religious functions and worship rituals so as to protect their own religion.
To protect their religion from attacks from their opponents, these rama as felt it essential to seek political patronage and keep their follower rulers coming to them? So they started according religious approval to several acts not commensurate with the rama a tradition etc.
Lack of influential rama as after Devardhiga i K am rama a who had some knowledge of prior canons. Due to this fact, a number of rama as and rama s started giving up the right conduct and accepted laxity therein.
All the aforesaid developments associated with coward rama as who were scared to endure afflictions further made the matter worse. They gave up the practice of temporary stay at one place randomly, continuous wandering from place to place, enduring afflictions, seeking and accepting faultless food from religious householders, complete nonpossession of worldly things etc which were considered as essential components of rama a conduct. They gave up all such activities and instead introduced laxity to suit them e.g. permanent stay at temples and
24
