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તખક.
Nyaya-Kusumānjali
Notes: The author examines in this and the following verses the arguments advanced by some persons against image-worship. In this verse, he refutes the arguments of those who say that imageworship is unjustifiable, since it is impossible to construct an image that shall be an exact representative of God, in two ways: (i) by admitting that God is formless and (ii) by considering God as having form.
In the former case, it is argued that though it is impossible to construct an image which shall be without form, yet it is desirable to have an image as it helps us in concentrating our mind and bringing before our eyes the ideals that God possesses. The main reason of worshipping images is that thereby the intended purpose of awakening in us the true notion of God is served. The image is not identified with God, but it inspires us with noble sentiments, which, if put into practice will enable us to attain His status. Thus it is clear that it is not unjustifiable to worship images, when they help us in our spiritual progress. Moreover, it may be here pointed out that according to Jainism imageworship is not an end but a means to an end. Further, it may be remembered that Jainism does not compel every one to take the help of an image. Those persons, who, in virtue of their having far advanced in spirituality can concentrate their mind without the medium of an image are allowed to do so. They meditate upon no one else but the divine nature of their own soul.
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