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The basic qualities
Lastly, mention the 28 basic qualities that a “sādhu" must possess according to the sacred texts. Without them, he cannot acquire other virtues. These qualities, called “mūlaguṇa", are: the five great vows, the five acts of carefulness, the control of the five senses, the six daily essential duties, the periodical removal of hair with one's hands, permanent nudity (for some monks), non-bathing, sleeping shortly and on bare ground, refraining from cleaning the teeth, taking food in the hollow of the hands standing and eating no more than once a day. All that shows the extreme rigour of that life which they have to lead without falling sick or else their progress will be halted.
6. Time-table of the Jain ascetics
Following their vow of non-attachment, Jain ascetics lead in India a wandering life all the year, except during the rainy season that lasts four months.
Their Ascetics: 221
While unceasingly changing of place in a sector defined by their "Acarya" Jain ascetics have to endure sun, sometimes overpowering heat, rain, humidity, storms, insects, aunts, etc. They always walk silently, reciting "mantra" or singing religious hymns. They start early in the morning and must see to not crush small beasts on their way, to brush the ground with their broom and if they have not a "muhapatti" to pay attention to not swallow flying insects.
On their way, Jain ascetics beg for their food and drink (gocari) at the houses of laypersons. If there are no adepts in a place, they beg at other houses. They gather their alms in bowls, if they are Śvetambara, and share their meal if they are several ones. The Digambara ascetics collect food in their joined hands and eat it immediately while standing. Often, people who see an ascetic approaching on the road tell the inhabitants of the village. As soon as informed, several adepts go to meet him (her), to welcome him (her) at the entry and if he (she) asks for food or a place to sleep, they greet him (her) like a saint and escort him (her) to the home of one adept. They kiss his (her) feet and
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