________________
126
concious and make his life peaceful and harmonious.
Practice for higher advancement
Those who want to rise higher in spiritual life, must follow five Aņuvratas (primary vows) prescribed for a householder which consists of partial observance of non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, chastity (to refrain from all illicit sexual relationships) and nonpossession. A householder should devote part of his time in Dāna (charity), Seela (virtuous life), Tapas (austerity) and Bhāvanā (purification of thoughts).
Non violence
Non-violence is the sense of equality of all living creatures. If you feel that every soul is independent and autonomous, you will never trample on its right to live. This leads you to compassion and kindness towards all living beings and results in harmony and peace in the world. The principle of non-violence in Jainism embraces not only human beings but also animals, birds, plants, vegetables and creatures of earth, air and water. It is the holy law of compassion extended to body, mind and speech of a living being. Lord Mahāvīra says, "All living beings desire to live. They detest sorrow and death and desire a long and happy life. Hence one should not inflict pain on any creature, nor have any feeling of antipathy or enmity. One should be friendly towards all creatures." (Ācāränga Sūtra, 1.2.3.4)
The other vows
All the other vows peached in Jainism are only an extension of the vow of non-violence. Truthfulness is essential to keep order and harmony in society. There are moments in life when one has to take hardships to keep up one's convictions. In business and in our dayto-day dealings our truthfulness is put to test. We have to practice it constantly to maintain our integrity. While observing the vow of nonstealing, one is required to earn his livelihood by honest means. We violate the vow of Aprigraha by accepting and holding what is not needed by us. What we possess in surplus has to go to those who need it badly. The principle of continence is significant in maintaining the morals in society.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
