________________
146
Jaina Acāra : Siddhanta aura Swarupa
delivering discourses, calm and composed fully conversant with the basic holy texts and genuinely interested in all nuns' spiritual welfare. Aryā, Mahattară, Gaņini and such other appellations indicate her sincerity and purity of conduct. In winter and summer she is permitted to be out not alone but in the company of at least one nun. In the rainy season, however, there must be three accompanists.
Ganavachedini—She enjoys the status of an Upādhyāya. In winter and summer she is required to take three nuns with her but four in the rainy season.
Abhiseks She enjoys the status of a Sthavira and even Ganini at times.
Pratihāri— She used to be a door-keeper to protect the chastity of nuns. Vșhatkalpabhāşya says that nuns were always more disciplined than monks. Wherever they stay, the door must be bolted from inside.If it be not possible, the Abhiseka should stand guard with a stick in her hand to prevent ruffians from terrorising them. It may also be curtained. As far as possible, open resorts must be scrupulously avoided.
All this is for the proper administration of both monks and nuns. The idea has always been to invigorate their well-guided spiritual adventure. There lies the glory of the Order. Violations and uninhibited transgressions cannot but tar its image.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org