________________
334
MOKSHA MARG PRAKASHAK
ing, reading, etc. but he does not pay attention on its purpose. In this sermon, it is not realised by him "what is purposeful for him”; rather he holds the intention of preching others by studying the Shastras himself and where many Jivas accept and follow his discourse, he becomes satisfied. But the attainment of knowledge is meant for one's own benefit; however, if occasion arises for benefitting others also he discourses them also. And if somebody does not listen to his discourses he may not listen, but why should the discourser feel sorry for it? By grasping the real sense of the scripture, one should benefit himself.
Even in the study of scriptures, many Jivas engage themselves in the study of Shastras pertaining to grammar, logic, poetry, etc. but these are the cause of showing scholarship in the world; they do not contain description relating to the benefit of the self-soul. The purpose of their study is only this that ifone possesses sharp intellect then he should, after studying these in smaller or greater measure, study the Shastras which are beneficial for the self-soul. But, if someone possesses average intellect, he should study only the easily graspable Shastras which are helpful in self-realisation. One should not engage himself in the study of grammar, etc. so much so that his life may come to an end without obtaining true knowledge of Tattvas.
Here someone may say-“If this be so, then one should not study grammar, etc.?
Answer: Without the study of grammar, etc., the inner meaning of the great books does not become clear, hence their study is also desirable.
He again questions- “Why are the great books written in a manner that without study of grammar, etc. their meaning does not become clear? Why did the Acharyas not write the Shastras containing wholesome preachings in simple understandable language? They were not having any selfish motive?"
Answer: In dialectal language also, the words of Prakrit & Sanskrit etc. only are used but those are in corruptform (Apbhransha). Moreover, the dialectal language is found in different-different forms from place to place, then how could the great persons (saints) write the Apbharansha words in the Shastras? The young child may
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org