________________
DISCOURSE 32
119
in such a manner that you will live a life of contentment within the bounds of ethical excellence. If you are ethically upright, you will not have to face any difficulties in life. In fact, you will be able to live a peaceful and simple life. Does my exhortation appeal to you? Would you make a determination thus ? "I will not earn money by unjust and immoral ways. I will never practise dishonesty". Make some such determination.
If you have this doubt in your mind, "My sons may not agree to this. My wife may not agree to this. They will not give up their temptation of getting thousands of rupees by unethical means" then, you bring them to me. I will convince them of this point. I am confident that I can convince them of this truth that unjust and unethical methods should not be used to earn money. But first you must be convinced of it.
Today, I am completing my discussion of Nyayasampanna vaibhava (Affluence accruing from uprightness), which is the first step in the ordinary Grihastha Dharma. For the last eight days, I have been discussing that principle and to-day is the eighth day. During these eight days, I have discussed the various aspects of the Samanya Grihastha Dharma.
Do not think that it is impossible to discard the unethical and unjust ways of earning money. Do not think that it is impossible to carry on your occupations in accordance with the principles of morality and justice. Nothing is impossible for a man of mental strength and will-power. What is required is the right endeavour in the right direction. If you make a solid effort in this direction, you will certainly attain the fruits that you desire. I would like to remind you today again of some basic principles.
1. Do not adulterate food-stuffs or medicines. 2. Do not use false weights and measures in buying and
selling things. 3. Supply commodities as per the samples you have shown. 4. Do not take more money for a lesser quantity. Give
the correct quantity to your customers.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org