Pristine Jainism

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

Page 28

Samyaktva (Rationality) : (25) Karma). Ringing bells, singing on microphones or using other instruments loudly cause noise pollution and is harmful to users as well as others. In most of religious congregations, processions and festivals the noise levels are much above 45 decibels, mostly 90 to 120 decibels and are harmful, causing deafness, headaches etc. Consecration Ceremonies:
Imitative rituals are galore in Jains. The festivities for consecration of idols known as pañcakalyāṇakas are performed with much fun, fanfare, fervour and gaiety and is generally a vulgar display of wealth. These do not have any impact (Prabhāvanā) on others rather cause animosity, illwill. There is no logic in the belief that by performing life drama of Arhats (Pregnancy, birth, renunciation, and attainment of omniscience and salvation) and reciting of a few hymns or so called mantras the stone or metal idols will get endowed with qualities of Arhats. It is not true because thieves easily take away these idols. Of course ordinary human beings do need some objects for meditation. The idols of Arhats are certainly instrumental in reminding their qualities and preachings. Any idol without superstitious consecration ceremonies will serve the purpose. In Śvetāmbara sect the idols are decorated in exquisite clothing and expensive ornaments on the plea that Tīrtharkaras were from rich, royal families. Svetāmbaras do agree that the Tīrtharkaras renounced all these except simple unstitched white clothes even as an ascetic. More paradoxical is the behaviour of followers of Sthanakavāsī (Sadhumārgi) Svetāmbara sect, who are against idol worship. They do not worship Jaina idols but of all other gods and goddesses viz., Durgā, Bhairava, Hanumāna, Ganesa etc. It is estimated that about Rs. 100.00 crores are being spent every year by Jains on these consecrations and other festivities. Fabulous amounts of money are spent on construction of gorgeous temples, costly gold paintings and icons of gold and even precious stones worth millions and crores. Anyone living according to Jaina tenets can not be fabulously rich: Pladefalfaqet af 7 : (Atmānusāsana -45). In past and at present only those who earned money by wrong means could