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Jain Theism
as it does not only bring out the Jain theism but also solves the metaphysical problems arising out of plurality of infinite liberated souls and their residence being a mundane place. The solution to the answer ultimately leads Jainism not only to theism but to Monism. (6) Argument from Daśavaikātika Satra
The Daśavaikālika Satra is one of the four Müla Sūtras of the Jain canonical literature. It is a mini-Agama, in the sense, it contains the essence of the Agamas described in ten chapters. It has become an ideal one for the Jain Monks and nuns of the present day period as it wonderfully shows how amidst all the unfavouable situation one can best perform the Arādhanā and attain spiritual progress. The very first line of its very first verse is the famous aphorism served as Jain definition of Dharma : “Religion is the highest bliss. It is made up of non-injury (Ahimsā), self restraint (Samyama) and penance (Tapa); even Gods bow down to him who has his mind always firm in religion is the highest bliss. And penance (Tapa); even Gods bow down to him who has his mind always firm in religion."40
The chapter 4 of this Mūla Sutra through verses no. 14 to 25, logically proves how one who knows life and nonlife passes through the stages in gradation and goes higher and higher, in his spiritual development, till at last he becomes an eternally perfect being." Thus we see here the content reflecting the religious, ethical and spiritual progress towards the state of perfection. It is therefore, highly theistic in its presuppositions and in its approach. (7) Argument from Uttarādhayayan Satra
The Uttarādhyayan Satra is also one of the four Mala Sūtras of the Jain canonical literature like the previous one. It is also very popular amongst the non-Jain scholars of Jainism. It contains the last sermons of Lord Mahāvīra, constituted into 36 chapters. It has a very big variety of subjects belonging to Jain metaphysics, ethics, theology, and, mythology. It is the last expression of the last Tirthankara, Lord Mahāvira. One of the characteristics of a theistic system is its worship of the Lord. Worship contains the rituals, the prayers and offerings to
40.
धम्मो मंगलमुनिळं अहिंसा संजमो तवो । dan fa 74fa ofta en quit lll 811 Dasavaikalika Sutra ry 14 to 25
Dasavaikalika Sutra - 1
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