________________
302
THE WAY OF LIFE
discard the impurities of his soul. This endeavour begins with the observance of the ordinary principles in life. The observance of the ordinary principles is the first step in the path of spiritual endeavour.
In order to attain spiritual welfare, you must observe the ordinary principles.
THINK WHY ALL THESE THINGS ARE HAPPENING
If you realise that the human state of existence is difficult of attainment you will acquire the sublime vision by means of which you can visualize your soul. You will visualize the impurities in your soul and will entertain the thoughts of purifying your soul. You will realise the truth of this statement, "Dharma, is the only means by which the soul can be purified". "Man should begin the adoration of Dharma by observing the ordinary principles". You will find this statement meaningful. Even then if you do not feel enthusiastic to observe the ordinary principles, you must try to find out why you are not feeling enthusiastic.
Is my mind infatuated with the attachment for my relatives?
Am I being deceived by my kith and kin?
Am I deeply attached to wealth and grandeur ?
Am I attached to physical delights?
If these are the causes for the absence of enthusiasm in you, then you cannot carry out the ordinary principles of the grihasthadharma. The attachment for your relatives, friends and splendour impedes your endeavour to observe the ordinary principles.
Why do not people acquire wealth by methods which are morally and legally unobjectionable? They adopt unfair methods to acquire wealth because they are attached to wealth and because they believe that they cannot acquire
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
