________________
454
The Unknown Pilgrims
browses here and there or the bee who buzzes from flower to flower. We have here a direct application of ahińså, hence the length of the chapter which is divided into two parts, the one containing one hundred and the other fifty sūtras. All conceivable circumstances and the requisite corresponding attitudes are set forth. These rules must be well studied from the start, in order to know how to re-act in different situations.26
- Chapter VI explicates further what is meant by perfect conduct. This chapter is complementary to Chapters III, IV and V and leaves nothing open to doubt.
- Chapter VII deals with purity of speech. It consists of counsel in regard to satya, an important aspect of ahimsā, in the context throughout of both community life and of daily contacts with the outside world.
- Chapter VIII stresses once more right conduct, completing and at times repeating the preceding chapters.
- Chapter IX is entitled vinaya-samadhi and, on account of its importance, is divided into four sections. It deals with the respectful, well-disciplined and obedient attitude one should have towards one's guruņi, ācārya and elders, whatever, it is added, their omissions, failings, and weaknesses, for they are the depositaries of the doctrine as it is lived out in practice.27 These spiritual attitudes are indispensable to a capacity for learning, self-correction and selfpurification. Vinaya, respectful submission, the acceptance of discipline, is the taproot of the dharma 28 This is so important that the
26 Cf. P 496 ff.
27 Cf. DS IX, 1, 3. Samadhi, of which the meaning carries different inflections according to context, denotes that which is unified, gathered together, absorption. Here it refers to the sustained attention and diligence with which one must express one's respect for authority or for the seniors, and faithfulness to the rules upon this subject; US I or vinaya-śruta which is addressed to novices; SkrS I, 13; 11-17.
28 Cf. DS IX, 2, 2.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
