Jaina Mysticism and Other Essays

Author(s): Kamalchand Sogani
Publisher: Prakrit Bharti Academy

Page 70

may be suffered by one. Besides, in spite of the two persons following the same course of Himsā, divergence at the time of fruition may be exhibited on account of the differences in their states of mind. Moreover, he who does not explicitly commit Hiṁsā, may also reap the fruits of Hiṁsā because of his continual inclination towards indulging in Himsā; and he who apparently employs himself in the acts of Himsā may not be liable to the fruits of Himsā. Thus, we may conclude that in judging the acts of Himsā and Ahimsā, it is the internal state of mind that counts. This does not mean that the outward commission of Himsā has no relevance. The importance of the internal state of mind should not be over-emphasised. The Puruşārthasidhyupāya tells us that he who exclusively emphasises the internal aspect at the expense of the external forgets the significance of outward behavioural.
2. The second thing which is the good or good in itself according to the Jinist is the virtuous disposition and action and the appreciation for the virtuous. The virtuous are those who have disposition not to act unjustly22, who have disposition to bestow fearlessness on the fearful23, to treat the distressed, the thirsty and hungry with kindness24, to act charitably towards the needy25. Besides, the virtuous practise forgiveness26, straightforwardness27, humbleness28, egolessness?, non-acquisitiveness30, self-control etc. Such persons should be treated respectfully, so much so that they may not feel hurt in society31 .
3. The third thing which the Jinist may call the good is knowledge. In other words, the experience of knowledge in tune with Ahimsā is the good. It is significant to acquire and give to others knowledge of facts and values. It may be noted that since knowledge is liable to be misused the Puruşārthasidhyupāya advises us to acquire knowledge only after having cultivated right attitude 32 and right attitude is the Ahimsă attitude. In a similar vein the Samaņasuttam tells us that vast knowledge without right attitude is of no use.
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