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SUMATINĀTHACARITRA
275
of the fault of pride by the destruction of conceit (māna). Sincerity (ärjava) is straightness in speech, mind and body from overcoming deceit. Freedom from greed (mukti) is the destruction of the thirst for inner and outer possessions. So the tenfold dharma, like a spotless wishing-jewel, capable of leading across samsāra, is attained in the world by merit."
Arguments for and against initiation (91–115) After hearing this Puruşasinha said respectfully, “ This dharma has been well shown to me like a treasure to a poor man. However, householders can not practice it, for householdership is the best pregnancy-whim of the tree of sarnsāra. O Blessed One, give me mendicancy, the royal residence of King Dharma. I am disgusted with dwelling in the poor village of existence."
Then the Blessed One, Sūri Vinayanandana said, “This desire of yours is good, productive of a wealth of merit. O you with a noble nature, very intelligent, discerning, having firm resolution, you are fitted for the burden of the vows. We will grant your wish. But go and take leave of your parents devoted to their son, since they are to be honored in the world above (all) men."
Then he went, bowed to his parents with his hands folded in submission and said earnestly, " Permit me to take the vow." They said: "Mendicancy is fitting, son. However, the observance of the five great vows that must be observed in this is very hard to bear. Indifference to one's own body, abstention from eating at night, food free from forty-two faults when you eat, always energetic, free from affection, deprived of possessions, devoted to virtue, one must always keep the five kinds of carefulness and the three controls. Pratimā, lasting for one month, etc., must be made according to rule ; resolutions also in regard to substance, place, time, and state of mind. As long as you live, no bathing, sleeping on the ground, tearing out of hair, no care of the body, always living in your
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