Spiritual Code and Restraints

Author(s): Manu Doshi
Publisher: Manu Doshi

Page 37

objects of senses from time to time. Since sex is the major object of touch, we have been more influenced by that instinct and have stayed attached to it in every life. The more intimate the contact, the greater is likely to be the attachment. Because of our greater contact with the sense of touch, attachment for the opposite sex has become our trait.
Celibacy is at variance with this long standing trait. Observance of celibacy is, however, desirable and is considered a necessity under certain conditions. For instance, monks and nuns, almost every where, are supposed to observe celibacy. How to ensure or effectively enforce the observance of celibacy under such circumstances has therefore been engaging the attention of the civilized societies.
Since males are considered more prone to pitfalls in this respect, the approach of the society has so far been to insulate them from female contact by segregating the two. Such insulation is supposed to give protection to the observers of celibacy as a fence provides protection to a growing plant. Those at the helm of the society have therefore devised a variety of segregating systems. In this respect Jainism lays down the following nine-fold code of conduct, which is supposed to act as so many fences for protection of celibacy.
1) To stay in a place bereft of women, animals or eunuchs, 2) Not to talk or think about females, 3) Not to occupy a seat for 48 minutes after it has been made use of by females, 4) Not to look at the limbs of females, 5) Not to occupy a place where there happens to be a couple behind the wall or partition, 6) Not to recall the sensual activities, that had been indulged earlier, 7) Not to take intoxicating food or beverages, 8) Not to eat too much and highly enriched food, 9) Not to adorn or otherwise beautify the body.
These or such other restrictions, if rigorously enforced, can be helpful in preventing the physical contacts of males with females. The restrictions, however, give rise to several questions, which will be dealt with in the next part.
Chapter 10
BRAHMACHARYA or CELIBACY Part 2
Sadde Roove Ya Gandhe Ya Rase Phase Tahev Cha
Panchvihe Kämgune Nichchaso Parivajjae
Mahävirväni
Arising from sound, sight or smell, from taste or touch, the five aspects of sensuality should be given up forever.
The following questions arising from the restrictive approach.
1) Can these restrictions help in overcoming the sexual instinct?