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210: JAINS TODAY IN THE WORLD
is extremely important in Jainism. Its execution must observe traditional rules fixed in the sacred scriptures and it is considered a great ceremony. Generally, an astrologer is asked for an auspicious date. Very often, invitations are printed with a photo of the future monk or nun and some details on him (or her) are given, so that other adepts be informed and may attend the event in great number.
"Dīkṣa" is generally performed under a great rectangular tent "mandapa" to protect participants from sun, rain or wind. As the rite is long, carpets are laid on the ground so that people sit down more comfortably. A little platform is erected at the bottom of the tent on which the "Acārya" who will conduct the ritual will seat, accompanied by some assistant ascetics.
The day before the ceremony, the novice may keep absolute fast. We will speak of the proceeding for one future monk or nun but the same rite is performed several times in a row if there are more. On the date fixed, the young novice or the man arrives in procession dressed like a king with a crown on the head. If it is a young girl or a woman she is dressed like a queen with all her jewels and fine array and also a crown on the head. Members of the family, friends and acquaintances accompany the future monk or nun. A pious woman follows, bringing a sacred vase (kalasa) of copper, filled with pure water, and with the auspicious Indian sign (swastika) carved or painted upon it. If the ceremony concerns a future Śvetämbara monk or nun, or a Digambara nun, two ascetics bring on a tray one a white monastic robe (vastra) the other a broom and a pail that will be the only possessions of the future monk or nun. For the nuns there is also a white veil, a shawl and a white bundle. Sometimes, for the Svetambara there is too a rosary (mālā), a book with sacred texts and bowls (patra) to beg food.
The "Acarya" goes up the platform and sits down on a small stool in its centre with distinguished ascetics chosen to attend him by his sides. The future monk (the future nun) and his "guru" (her "guruņi") go up the platform and stand in front of him. They perform the
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