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JAINISM
The Sanskrit word for these twelve rules is "vrata." It is derived from "vri," which means to select, or choose; so, literally, the word "vrata" means a kind of choice. In the technical or idiomatic sense in which the word is here used, however, there is also the meaning of (1) choosing a right course of conduct, (2) exercising the judgment to see what is the right course out of several possible courses, and (3) the effort of will implied (conation).
As it is persons of the fifth stage of development that are now in consideration, who are in the right attitude of mind towards life and truth, the selection which they will make will be a right and proper one;--persons in a state of delusion and who dislike truth, will not choose the path of rectitude.
The choosing of a right course of conduct from among many ways, necessitates the exercise of judgment and discrimination.
And, as doing this, is not following the path of least resistance, or living a life where no such choice is made, there is an effort of will ("virya") or conation.
So, there are the above three meanings to this word "vrata," as technically used here.
The choice is a very strict matter, requiring the exercise of much care. And the idea is peculiarly Jain; there is no oath to a superior, or to a Deity. Neither is it a decree or command, issued by a Deity to his subjects or creatures. The Vedic idea of a "vrata" is very different.
These twelve special rules or vows may be divided into three classes; the first five vows are called "lesser" vows, as compared with the more strict vows of the monk. Jain Education International For Private & Personal Use Only
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