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Jaina Acara : Siddhanta aura Swarupa
vows, in-flow and exit of Karma, penances, ascetics' conduct, lay votaries' special vows, hurdles to be crossed by aspirants, life-sketches of the founders of Jainism and the like. Both these books are in a condensed style. These very things were later elaborated for the understanding of all.
(5) Bhagavati.It is a very remarkable book containing one hundred and thirty-eight 'Satakas' and thirty-six thousand questions. The pontiff Gautama asks various types of questions in the spirit of one determined to learn. The answers are given by Lord Mahavira himself which lends credence and authority to it. It contains also some historical conversation. There is no topic which has not been touched here. Its reading alone can bring out what it is. It is a momentous reference book. The disciples of Parsvanātha put questions to the disciples of Mahavira. It shows how the convincing answers make them accept the great vows.
(6) Jnātadharmakathā—Through the medium of religious stories the subtle tenets of Jainism have been explained wonderfully well. There are always obstructions in the way of spiritual aspirants, but it is only the weak-willed who are deflected from the arduous path for want of timely advice as was given to Meghakumāra. It is a thorny way where roses are not scattered, but without fearlessly treading on it, the human life shall go waste. Self- discipline can take you along whereas licentiousness will mean your deplorable regress. If you seem to achieve a little, it should not make you conceited, since ascending a few steps does not mean reaching the peak. The least negligence can see you tumbling down. Why forget "Sailaka who was undone because of a slight mistake. Alertness at all hours, humility, faith, devotion to the preceptor and the like can see you through. Pupils must serve the preceptor even though the latter might have fallen from the high pedestal he was occupying. The pupils' faith can strengthen him. Think of the human body and judge what it is in essence. Let not the external glamour entice you, since it conceals dirt within. The story of Rohiņi is to strengthen you in your resolve to rise upwards, not in the estimation of others, but in your own without which the life of an ascetic will be rendered useless.
Jainism cares more for inner purity than extemal cleanliness. All attention, if focussed on the body, will make you forget your self which means an irreparable loss. The ultimate aim of Jainism is perfect release from bondage. Attachment, more than aversion does you great harm in so far as it makes you forget your duty. The only cause of the fall of Nandanamanihāra was attachment. Sexuality and lust may appear attractive like the Nandi fruit, but it has always proved fatal. The slightest mistake at the fag end of your life may make you a denizen of hell.
A householder should very respectfully approach an ascetic. He should have nothing to do with any stuff containing life. On being noticed by the ascetic, he should bend low grasping his clothing. With the palms Jain Education International For Private & Personal Use Only
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