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Mahavira & Code of Conduct / 155
3. Non-Stealing
As theft is the cause of disrepute, noble people do not indulge in it. It is decried by all saints. It creates enmity amongst friends and relatives A mendicant should not take anything animate or inanimate, whether cheap or expensive without the permission of its owner. Under the influence of greed a man fails to discriminate between good and evil. Due to greed, a man indulges in theft without caring even for his own life. Only when a person falis prey to greed, he is tempted to steal another's property. Buying stolen property is classified as theft. Smuggling goods is classified as theft. Use of false weights and measures is classified as theft. Adulteration is also classified as theft.
