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Rishibhashit A Study
explained the difference between traditions of Parshwa and Mahavir245. Main points of contradiction were Chaturyam and Panch Mahavrata (five major vows) and cladness and uncladness. But besides these there were other points of contradiction like form of discourse regarding Pratikraman (re-evaluation) and Ahimsa; information about Samayik, discipline, blockage of Karma influx, morals and penance; these have been discussed in Sutrakritang and Bhagwati. According to Bhagwati Sutra, Kalasya-Vaishik putra, an ascetic follower of Parshwa, while being inducted to Mahavir's monk organisation, accepted five vows and Sapratikraman dharma (rites of daily re-evaluation of actvities), and also as discipline, uncladness, head shaving, non-bathing, not brushing teeth, uncovered head and feet, sleeping, on floor, sleeping on sheet, sleeping on wood, plucking hair, continence, entering others house for alms246, equanimity for available and non available. This shows that these disciplines did not prevail in the tradition of Parshwa.
The rules about keeping umbrella, shoes, leather bags, and cutting of nails, mentioned in the Chhed sutras, were adopted in Mahavir's school through the influence of the Parshwa followers. This is also true that due to the luxurious inclinations of Parshwite monks, Pasath (Parshwath) became a synonym of laxness in conduct. Jnata and Avashyak-churni contain mentions of laxness of many monks and nuns belonging to the tradition of Pasrhwa247. All this indicates that Parshwa was a historical Rishi whose tradition, which was comparatively easy going, prevailed during Mahavir's period and many Parshwite monks were shifting to Mahavir's school.
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As regards the philosophy of Parshwa described in Rishibhashit, it is the most ancient and authentic form of religious and philosophic beliefs of Parshwa available. Rishibhashit contains both philosophical and religious thoughts of Parshwa. It should be noted that Rishibhashit also contains that variation of Parshwa chapter which was included in the book titled Gativyakaran248. From philosophical view point it contains form of the Universe; movent of matter and soul; Karma, its precipitation, fruitition, and various consequences. Also discussed are panchastikaya (five fundamentals) and form of Moksha. From view point of conduct it contains discussion about Chaturyarm, passions, the eighteen evil activities from killing to misconception, sterile food etc.
First of all it conneys that the Universe and five fundamentals are eternal. But with the acceptence that the Universe is eternal, it has also been stated that it is transient; the fact that Parshwa believed the
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