Pristine Jainism

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

Page 27

(24) : Pristine Jainism are supposed to be pleased. However, worship though copied has been given connotations according to Jainism for forsaking passions and following righteous path. The offerings are taken by servants (Mális) in temples for their livelihood. But there is no justification for colouring rice etc because it reduces sale prices and harms the interests of servants. Gandhodaka (water from cleaning of idols) is put on head, eyes and other organs by Jains with reverence with false belief that it will cure them or bestow favours. The results may be otherwise as a person with conjunctivitis (eye infection) twice dips his hands, others following him may also get infected with the disease. Devotees even smear their bodies with washings of dirty feet of monks. This is a copy of the practice of taking foot-washings (Caraņāmsta) in Vaişņavite cult. Pouring of water butter, milk etc on Jaina idols (Abhişeka) is a common ceremonial practice on various occasions. This is against Jaina principles. Bathing ceremony (Abhișeka) is done only at the time of the birth of Tīrtharikaras and not even during their ascetic life much less when they attain godhood (Arhat). The idols once consecrated are to be revered as Arhats and pouring water on these idols is lowering down the status from Arhat to child at birth. This is disrespect to Arhats and is sin. The practice is certainly imitation of Vaişņavite cult. Cleaning of idols (Prakṣāla) as prescribed by squeezed wet cloth is different, as it is necessary to clean dust etc. from idols. The practice of putting big brass bells in Jaina temples is also imitation of other cults. In other cults the belief is that there gods sleep and have to be awakened. In Jainism the gods Arhats and Siddhas do not sleep and are immune from eighteen weaknesses viz, rebirth, ageing, thirst, hunger, wonder, anxiety, sorrows, illness, painful thoughts, pride, attachment, fear, sleep, worry and sweating. The argument given for ringing bells loudly is that heavenly beings also come in temples and may be visible to some who may get harmed. This is all wrong as even if heavenly beings come, they are Jain and will not harm Jains. Temples should be places of peace and tranquillity for meditation, people here should recite prayers only silently and not disturb others as disturbing others is sin (Antarāya