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reasoned-out discourse, practical throughout, methodical, and graduated to the capacity of every living being howsoever situated.
It is not only a discourse on the importance of Ahimsa as a basic rule of conduct, to be universally adopted, by all, at all times, in all climes, and in all circumstances, but is sufficient to solve all problems which agitate man's mind, such as what substance the universe is composed of, what are the natural qualities and functions of each of these substances, what is life, why does it transmigrate, how can it attain the highest purity and perfection.
After the usual preliminary salutation, the author lays down the basic rule of universal application, which belps in the complete understanding of things namely, that everything has to be looked at from two points of view, the real and the practical standpoint. Then soul or life is defined, and thereafter the mutual action and re-action between Life, and non-Life, Jiva and Ajiva, Purusha and Prakriti, Átmá and Karma.
The three Jewels of Jaina Philosophy-Right Belief, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct are then lectured upon. Himsa is described in great detail, and its various implications and effects discussed at length. The Real and Practical Right Conduct is then discussed, and it is shown that the principle of Ahimsa underlies all meritorious actions, and all efforts for the acquisition of the goal of life-Divinity.
A synopsis of the contents of the book is given to faci. litate a grasp of the lessons inculcated in the great Discourse.
Conclusion. Every pilgrim on the Path must therefore be constantly careful to avoid all passionate thought-activities. Every action of his will then be performed with due care and caution, and the commission of Himsa would be avoided altogether.
The acquisition of internal purification follows the practice of self-control, or conquest over the cravings of the body, and the ravings of the mind, a supreme subjection of
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