Pristine Jainism

Author(s): S M Jain
Publisher: Parshwanath Vidyapith

Page 26

Samyaktva (Rationality) : (23) ten cases is fictitious because only two who are not cured are cases of poisonous snakes. Sacrifice of mute helpless animals, children of neighbours and even one's own are horrendous horrifying practices by gullible people under the influence of tantrikas. Harassing of women even killing them because of hidden economic reasons on the pretext that these women practice witchcraft, are also examples of superstitious beliefs. The frivolous claims and tricks of these people are being exposed now by devoted rationalist scientists. It is most unfortunate that eminent Jaina saints are also now practising occultism, alluring gullible people by claiming occult powers (Mantra-tantra), although they are forbidden to do such things.
Ritual of Worship:
In view of the fundamental principles of Jainism it is difficult to substantiate the genesis of the rituals of worship by eight substances viz. water, sandal, source of light (Dīpa), incense (Dhūpa), fruits, flowers, food (Naivedya) unbroken rice (Akşat). So enlightened, as Arhats would have never said that their followers should worship them. They tread on ideal, rational path and ordained their followers to follow it to achieve salvation like them. Therefore it is obvious that prescription for worship did not originate from Arhats but was subsequently added by saints who were not omniscient but only mundane beings (chadmastha), probably under the influence of the rituals of other sects. The literary meaning of these eight substances is misleading e.g. sandal is metaphorically metonymical for soothing precepts of Arhats but it is given up in offering during worship whereas in principle it should be imbibed. But the stanzas in worship are different while offering flowers, which incite sexuality (Kāma) and should be forsaken. The literary version is correct in case of flowers but not others water etc. The Arhats and Siddhas who are worshiped are free from all wants and passions. They do not, require anything. They are neither pleased by offerings nor angry otherwise. The worship ritual is probably a copy of other sects where gods and goddesses