________________
39 point of view ( Nishchaya, Naya ). The advanced souls are advised to depend upon their own-self. They need not depend upon outward objects; but the less-advanced souls cannot progress without outward help."
The layman's mental make up is different from that of a Digambar muni, who has renounced all out-ward possessions, and who is a real and wellequipped warrior to fight against the invulnerable forces of infatuation, anger, deceit, avarice, conceit etc. The householder's mind is wapting in sufficient spiritual strength since worldly attractions and allu. rements bave made him a weakling. Therefore he is advised to worship the idols of the Conqueror (Jina) to remind him of the ideal to be achieved. He should devotedly serve the enlightened saints, study the holy scriptures, which contain the Teachings of the omniscients regarding salvation and which correctly guide the wandering soul regarding the right path of rectitude and liberation.
This point is to be borne in mind that the idols of passionless and perfect souls, who have obtained liberation are in fact ideals for inspiration to lead the peaceful and pious life of self-control and self-dependence.
It is incorrect to understand that the idols shower blessings, if they are praised or flattered. As the statue of a warrior impels the mind to valiant actions, the idols of peaceful and passionless ideals uplift the mind towards sublime conduct and purity
