Jain Study Center NC Raleigh 1997 11 YJA Regional Convention

Author(s): Jain Study Center NC Raleigh
Publisher: USA Jain Study Center NC Raleigh

Page 44

Twelve Vows of Layperson
Monks are very keen about the uplift of their souls and hence they sacrifice all worldly enjoyments, family ties, and adopts the five great vows (Maha-vratas).
For those who want to remain in family life and for whom complete avoidance of five principle sins are difficult, Jain ethics specifies the following twelve vows to be carried out by the householder.
Pravin K. Shah, Jain Study Center of NC
Of these twelve vows, the first five are main vows of limited nature (Anuvratas). They are somewhat easier in comparison with great vows (Maha-vratas). The great vows are for the ascetics.
The next three vows are known as merit vows (Guna-vratas), so called because they enhance and purify the effect of the five main vows and raise their value manifold. It also governs the external conduct of an individual.
The last four are called disciplinary vows (Shikhsa-vratas). They are intended to encourage the person in the performance of their religious duties. They reflect the purity of one's heart. They govern one's internal life and are expressed in a life that is marked by charity. They are preparatory to the discipline of an ascetic's life.
Three merit vows (Gunavrats) and four disciplinary vows (Shikhsa-vratas) together are known as Seven vows of virtuous conduct (Shilas).
A person may adopt these vows, according to his individual capacity and circumstances with the intent to adopt ultimately as great vows.
The layperson should be very careful while observing and following these limited vows. This vows being limited or restricted vows may still leave great scope for the commitment of sins and possession of property.
The twelve vows are described as follows:
Five Main Vows of Limited Nature (Anuvratas):
1. Non-violence Limited Vow 2. Truthfulness Limited Vow 3. Non-stealing Limited Vow 4. Chastity Limited Vow
5. Non-attachment Limited Vow
- Ahimsa Anuvrat
- Satya Anuvrat
- Achaurya Anuvrat
- Bhramacharya Anuvrat - Aparigraha Anuvrat
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