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JAINISM wishes to progress spiritually should have all these four objects, but in such a way that a higher one is not sacrificed for the sake of a lower one. If there are difficulties, as far as the lowest object is concerned, then he should let it go, and preserve the higher ones,
The four classes of objects of life are as follows:
(1) Doing good; that is to say, the practice of these rules.
(2) The acquisition of the means of enjoyment; i.e.. wealth.
(3) Desires. There are desires for a nice house, for dress, for fame, for writing books, etc. This is the lowest of the four objects of life.
(4) Liberation. This is the highest of the four classes of objects of life, and some idea of it can be had by remembering what particular quality of the soul comes out when any of the foreign energies in any of the eight classes mentioned (pages 25 to 34) is removed.
The ordinary man of the world accepts only two of these four objects, viz., the second and third, getting the means to satisfy desires, and satisfying desires. When the other two objects are added, the person's life becomes very different.
RULE 29
In doing anything. he should always consider his strength and his weaknesses. He should not undertake more than his strength will allow him to carry out. Jain Education International For Private & Personal Use Only www.jainelibrary.org
