Tattvartha Sutra

Author(s): Umaswati, Umaswami, Manu Doshi
Publisher: Shrutratnakar Ahmedabad

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TATTVÄRTHA SUTRA
words, it shows the way to manifest the capabilities, which are lying within. The endeavor for that purpose constitutes Dharma and full manifestation of the capabilities is Moksha. Its concept of Moksha is thus not abstract. It does not relate to the abode in a remote, secluded corner of the universe. It is equated with total realization of potentialities. As the obstacles that hamper the manifestation of the capabilities are removed, the full manifestation arises.
That objective can no longer be set aside as being utopian. Tattvärtha Sutra shows that it is within the reach for every thinking person who tries to attain it. For that purpose it does not lay any mystic theories or dwell in the realm of philosophy. It clearly defines every concept and concisely indicates, step by step, what needs to be done for attaining the objective of Moksha. Its first chapter deals with various concepts like path of liberation, main fundamentals, types of knowledge, the way they arise, viewpoints etc. Let us examine that.
सम्यग्दर्शनज्ञानचारित्राणि मोक्षमार्गः ॥१-१॥ 1.1: Samyagdarshanjnänchäritäni Mokshamärgah.
(Right perception, right knowledge and right conduct constitute the path of liberation.)
The path of liberation consists of three factors of right perception, right knowledge and right conduct. It does not depend upon blessing, grace or other favor of some human or superhuman authority. The emphasis is on the right approach. One should have right thinking and right conviction and he should behave in light of that conviction. In fact, one who has firm faith cannot remain without behaving in accordance with