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needs of the Munis and others in need. This is known as Atithi Samvibhagvrat. Atithi means someone who may come unexpectedly, without invitation (such as a Sadhu), and Samvibhag means sharing, with love and respect.
The Atichars
1 - PRANATIPAAT - NON-VIOLENCE The first minor vow is to refrain from violence towards all living beings. When will that auspicious day come in my life, when I would take the vow not to kill deliberately, intentionally or unknowingly, any of the mobile beings, namely those with two senses, three senses, four senses, and five senses, accept those which may inflict pain to my body or my dependents? Until I take that vow, I shall try not to hurt or kill the smallest lives, or ask anyone else to do so, or encourage those who are doing so mentally, verbally, or physically.
There are following five major violations pertaining to this vow of non violence: 1. Confining of any beings inclusive of animals and birds where one could hurt them, or where there is no freedom, 2. Hitting them with sticks or by any other means, 3. Piercing nose, ear, or amputing limbs or any part of the body, 4. Making them carry heavy load, or 5. Depriving them of food, shelter, etc. If I have indulged in any of the above acts, then may all my such sins be dissolved. TASSA MICHCHHAMI DUKKADAM.
2 - MRUSHAVAAD - TRUTHFULNESS The second minor vow is to refrain from speaking gross lies. When will that auspicious day come in my life, when I can take vow not to speak lies, pertaining to matrimonial matters, trading in animals or land, misrepresenting or denying somebody's property deposited, or becoming a false witness, etc? Until I can take this vow, I shall try not to lie or ask someone else to lie for me, or encourage those who indulge in lies mentally,
