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Dikṣā: Consecration
453
The Daśavaikālika-sūtra which, in common with all the Sutras for ascetics, is addressed equally to sådhvis and to munis, is entirely composed of rules inspired by the doctrine and set in the very concrete context of daily life.24 In this Sūtra all the foundations are set forth in a readily accessible way. There are here no philosophical considerations nor stories inserted among the rules, as is the case in certain other Sütras. It is comprehensive, brief, precise, exactly what is needed for gaining familiarity with the doctrine and also a knowledge of the conduct and attitudes, both inner and outer, that are in conformity with it. It is not a systematic treatise and one finds in it many repetitions, but often, in these repetitions, one observes differing nuances of meaning.
It is made up of ten chapters and concludes with two cūlikās (appendices). Each of the chapters enlarges on different subjects:
- Chapter I introduces us straightaway to the dharma which is: ahiṁsā, saryama, tapas.
- Chapter II indicates the necessary basic dispositions: self-control, which is gained by transcending, mastering and sublimating desires.
- Chapter III gives an introduction to right conduct, to the exact rules which conduce towards self-mastery. We have here a practical application of II.
- Chapter IV deals with the ten sorts of jiva;25 then it proceeds to a consideration of the chief mahāvrata, ahiṁsā, followed by the other mahāvratas and corresponding rules of conduct.
- Chapter V indicates the proper behaviour and rules to be observed in regard to gocari, the quest for food. One must imitate the cow who
24 Although generally the masculine gender is used in the text, we give references in the feminine, for each of these sutras is addressed without distinction both to munis and their guru and to sādhvis and their guruņi.
25 Cf. P 284 ff.
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