________________
128
A Study in the Origins and Development of Jainism
Jain Ethics
Right conduct is essential for the attainment of moksha. For the right conduct of the adherents of Jainism a specific code of conduct has been laid down. In this ethical code separate provisions have been made for householders and monks.
Ethical code for the Householders or Laity
1.
Five anuvratas
The householder has to observe five vows viz. ahimsã, satya, astey, brahmacharya and aparigraha. It has been enjoined on lay people that they will observe these vows as for as is possible. Since, living a worldly life it is not possible for a householder to strictly observe these vows so some concessions have been granted to him. This is why they are called aņuvratas. Ahiṁsā: Any act at physical, verbal or mental levels intended to inflict injury, pain or harm is violence. Killing and beating any being or inflicting physical pain in any mode to it is physical violence. The very thought of doing any harm amounts mental violence. Uttering harsh words to offend the feelings of any being is verbal violence. Total abstinence of these types of violence can not be expected from a householder. But he will have to take care of the fact the minimum injury is committed while discharging his duties.
Satya : A householder should observe truth fullness in his day-to-day life. He should not only abstain from speaking false, but also abstain from inducing others to do so. He is ordained to guard himself from approving other's falsehood, spreading false ideas, revealing other's secret, forgery of documents and breach of trust. Though sometimes the householder is emotionally forced to resort to falsehood he has to be cautious that such incidents are minimised.
