Jainism the Creed for All Times

Author(s): D S Baya
Publisher: Prakrit Bharti Academy

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BENEDICTION EXPLAINED
For any devout Jaina, the day starts with a reverent recitation of this benediction involving bowing to the five venerable paragons of spiritual virtues called 'Pañca Paramesthi'. These five paragons epitomise spiritual achievements and, in turn, guide the spiritual journeys of the other followers of the faith. A brief account of each of these five paragons will be in order at the very beginning of this work. Arihanta Or Arhanta
Arihanta means the slayer of the foes. The term foe ordinarily means a person who is inimical to one's interest. Here, however, the term refers to enemies of the soul rather than those of the physical persona. They are - delusion (Moha) brought about by attachment and aversion, anger (Krodha), pride (Māna), guile (Māyā) and greed (Lobha), which are related to desire for the mundane welfare and its fulfilment or otherwise. The spiritual aspirant who slays these spiritual foes sheds delusion (Mohanīya Karma) and, thereby, gains true flawless vision (Kevala-darśan), perfect unlimited infinite knowledge or omniscience (Kevala-jñāna) and unhindered prowess as his hindering (Antarāya) karma are also destroyed in the process. In other words such a person (Arihanta, the slayer of spiritual foes) becomes enlightened (endowed with perfect vision and perfect knowledge) and capable of not only seeing things in their right perspectives but also of making others see them as such. He also becomes endowed with perfect and flawless conduct (Yathākhyāta Cāritra) and sets a perfect example for the others to emulate. In other words he becomes an Arhanta or the most venerable one. Being endowed with such enlightenment and perfect conduct, 4: JAINISM: THE CREED FOR ALL TIMES