Sannyasa Dharma

Author(s): Champat Rai Jain
Publisher: Champat Rai Jain

Page 44

SANNYA$A DHARNA
(i) İrya samiti signifies carefulness in moving about.* The sādhu does not move about in the dark, nor on grass, but only along a path which is much trodden by foot. While moving about, he carefully observes the ground in front of him, to the extent of four cubits (2 yards), so as to avoid treading over any living being. He does not move about purposelessly, but only with a view to the accomplishment of some dhārmic object in view, as for instance, pilgrimage, visiting the guru (preceptor), going out for food, or for the preaching of dharma. This samiti is transgressed
(a) by not being careful enough in looking at the ground in front,
and
(6) by sight-seeing along the route,
It is to be noted that the moving about of a saint is not intended for sight-seeing, the gaining of experience, or anything else ; but merely to enable him to progress towards the goal of Perfection and Bliss. Dhārmic injunction, and not the opinions of men, should be his guide, therefore, in all such matters. The world has no idea of his ideal, which is to be rid of the body as fast as possible. He knows what it implies and will, therefore, eternally disregard the advice, so freely given, of the easy-chair critic, not to make a fool of himself.' The samitis are intended to enable him to perfect himself in
* Cf. The Sannyasin (saint) should purify his steps by taking heed where he sets his foot; he should purify the water he drinks, in order that he may not cause the death of animals ..." -The Occult Science in India by L. JACOLLIOT (quoting Agrouchade Parikchai) p. 74,