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INTRODUCTION : XXIX
have a place for, both, the knowledge and conduct as means to achieve spiritual salvation, it is the Jaina philosophy that considers the (Right) conduct as basic and the (Right) knowledge as a supporting requirement as opposed to the other two philosophies that consider the knowledge as the basic requirement and conduct as an appendage to the knowledge. It is, therefore, natural that all Jaina scriptures are predominantly devoted to detailing the Rightconduct for the Jaina adherents - both, householders and ordained - down to its finest nuances as part of their Cāritra Mīmānisā. No wonder, the authors of Jaina canonical as well as explanatory literature have vexed themselves eloquent on this, the most important, factor for achieving the ultimate accomplishment of Moksa', 'Nirvāna', 'Siddhatva' or spiritual salvation. Vācaka Umāsvāti is no exception.
The Author -
The author of this highly valued treatise on the most important subject of Tattvārtha or "The Fundamentals Of Jaina Philosophy', Vācāka Umāsvāti is equally recognized by all the sects of Jainas as such. However, he is also known by his aliases – Umāsvami and Grddhapiccha - by the Digambara tradition of the Jainas. Though both the sects -- Śvetāmbara and Digambara claim him to be a member of their respective sects, there is enough evidence to the effect that he was a Svetāmbara monk ranking as Vācaka or teacher (Upādhyāya - well versed in the study of precanons OR Pūrvavid ).
"Vinyamülao dhammo".
- Nāyadhaminakahão, 5.
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