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THE WAY OF LIFE
The great author gives his guidance to people to enable them to lead a respectable life as grihasthas. You must understand the significance of this statement of the enlightened author.
When Pethad Shah entreated Acharyashri Dharmaghoshasooriji to give him the vow of parigraha parimana vrat (the vow limiting possessions), limiting his attachments to a petty amount, the Gurudev after examining his palm and features extended the limit in his case to lakhs of rupees. If a worthy man has in his possession enormous wealth, he will spend it for noble purposes. Such a man increases his own respect and the respect of the Dharmashasan. ELEVATE YOUR LIFE TO A LOFTY LEVEL
If a man has enormous wealth, pure intelligence, overflowing courage, unfailing determination and the guidance of a noble spiritual head, he will amaze and delight the world by performing noble deeds. He will gather the punyanubandhi punya or the merit that impels a man to acquire more merit. Such a man is honoured in the sangha, in society and in the country and he becomes an example for others to imitate and to emulate.
From the Audience : The progress in Artha and Kama takes place on account of punyakarma (merit); is it not so ?
Maharajashri : The ascendance of punyakarma depends on a proper pursuit of the three purusharthas. It cannot manifest itself in the absence of purusharthas (endeavours). If you remain idle at home can your punyakarma manifest itself ? Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth does not favour a man who is idle, indolent and who does not make any endeavours. Lakshmi, favours a man who is a lion in courage and who carries out some useful occupation. (Fortune favours a brave and hardworking man). Therefore, carry out your endeavours. After realizing your abilities and potentialities, carry out your purusharthas (endeavours) in the right direction.
This is enough for to-day.
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