Universal Message of Lord Mahavira

Author(s): Dulichand Jain
Publisher: Parshwanath Vidyapith

Page 39

The Jaina Way of Life
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when one has to take hardships to keep up one's convictions. In business and in our day-to-day dealings our truthfulness is put to test. We have to practise it constantly to maintain our integrity. While observing the vow of non-stealing, one is required to earn his livelihood by honest means. We violate the vow of Aparigraha 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.
Thus, we see that these principles preached by Lord Mahāvīra, are universal in character and are applicable to every individual in any society. Even ordinary people can practise these simple rules without the least philosophical speculation.
Integral view of Life
Jainism takes an integral view of life. Either faith or only knowledge by itself cannot take us to the path of salvation. We should have a combination of right faith, right knowledge and right conduct to tread the path of salvation. These constitute the three jewels of Jainism. Without right faith, there is no right knowledge and without right knowledge there is no virtuous conduct. Lord Mahāvīra says, “By knowledge one understands the nature of substances; by faith one believes in them; by conduct one puts an end to the flow of karmas and by austerity one attains
purity, 29,
Concept of Karma
The significant achievement of Tīrthankara Mahāvīra's revolution in spiritual field was the upholding of the concept of karma in place of God, the creator. He said that man is the