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Jaina Ethics and Miscellaneous Customs and Manners
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a procession in honour of the Kalpa-Sūtra 136 a scripture which they hold in great reverence. Lord Mahāvīra's birth-day is conventionally celebrated on the fifth day of Paryūshana even though it really falls, on the thirteenth day of the bright half of Chaitra. The Svetämbaras organise a cradle procession in honour of the day.137
The Jainas are specially zealous during Paryūshaņa to prevent any animal life being taken. In many places they have prevailed on respective local authorities to prohibit slaughter of animals during these days. In other places they try to stop, if necessary by payment of money, slaughter of animals at least on the last day. 133 (ii) Siddhachakra Pūjā or Saint-wheel Worship :
This is preformed only by Svetambara Jainas twice a year in Chaitra and Asvina and lasts for nine days beginning on the seventh and ending on the full-moon day. It ranks next in importance to Paryūshana.139 In every Śvetambara temple there is a Saintwheel, or Siddhachakra, - a little eight-sided plate made of either brass or silver with five tiny figures. These figures represent the Pañcha Parameshthins. Between the figures are written the names of the three jewels of the Jaina faith and also the word 'tapa', i. e., austerity. This plate, which thus bears on its surface a complete summary of Jainism , is regarded as of such importance that no Śvetāṁbara temple is without it. Once during the days of worship people take the Saint-wheel in procession out of the town and bathe it in water. This little pilgrimage is known as Jalayātrā.140 (iii) Ashtānhika :
The fast of Ashtānhika is regarded next in importance to Paryūshana. Only Digambaras observe this fast. It is performed thrice a year during the week beginning from the lunar eighth in the months of Kārtika, Phālguna and Ashādha. In these days, like in Paryūshana, the fast is observed with varying strictness,141 (iv) Malā vīra Jayanti :
The birth-day anniversary of Lord Māhavīra falls on the thirteenth day of the bright half of Chaitra and this is celebrated with great pomp and enthusiasm throughout India by all Jainas. Processions are taken, meetings are held and the message of Lord
