Jainism

Author(s): M R Gelra
Publisher: Createspace

Page 84

Jain Ethics
1. Code of Conduct
Jain Ethics makes a provision for a code of conduct for both householders and ascetics. Jain householders practice the vows to a limited extent of non-violence, truth, nontheft, non-carnality, and non-possessiveness, keeping day-to-day actions open. These vows are known as Anuvrats, whereas monks and nuns observe these vows completely. For monks and nuns these vows are known as Mahavrats.
Once Mahavira, was staying at Vanijyagrama where the richest man of the area Ananda used to live. Ananda heard the sermon of Mahavira and got influenced by the Jain way of attaining salvation. Mahavira told Ananda to accept the twelve vows of a householder, out of which five are known as Anuvrats. They are as follows:
1. Not to kill anyone. Not to hurt any living being by body, speech and mind. Not to remain the part of intentional violence. Even animals should not be overburdened, or deprived of food and water. This is the first Anuvrat known as Ahimsa or nonviolence. The violence used in self-defence and in other living activities should be minimized.
2. Never to tell a lie. Never to give a false statement as witness in a court. Never disclose the secrets of others. Never give false advice. This is the second Anuvrat related to Truth.
3. Never involve in any theft or burglary. Never evade the laws of the state. The use of false weights and measures is against the ethics of Jainism. This is the third Anuvrat related to integrity.
4. Abstain from excessive desire of sex. Remain satisfied with one's own spouse. Never involve in debauchery. This is the fourth Anuvrat related to practice of partial celibacy.
5. Limit the attachment to property and money. Control the excessive anger, ego, greed and other internal possessions. This is the fifth Anuvrat related to social concept of equality.
These Anuvrats teach a simple religious lifestyle of ethics, giving emphasis to discipline, development and dedication.
Such morals lead to fairness and compassion in the society. The inspiration to avoid fraudulent transactions is possible by practicing the principle of restraint. Similarly the other vows related to other walks of life should be observed.
For ascetics these five vows are to be observed fully, strictly throughout the life.
It is a fact that Jains fall behind in the number game as their religion is centered towards the liberation of soul rather than accumulation of followers. Jain gurus and Acharyas
84