YJA Convention 1994 07 Chicago IL First

Author(s): Young Jains of America (YJA)
Publisher: Young Jains of America YJA USA

Page 60

Jain Youth and Children "Saamaayika"
BY Balabhadra
'Saamaayika' explanation:
The Youth and Children Saamaayika is a structured program that presents the basics of Jainism in an appealing and understandable format. While having the same name as what adults do, this Saamaayika is specifically designed to meet the needs of North American, Western culture, young Jains.
Many Jain youth and children lose interest in their religion because it appears too vast and complex to learn and master. This Saamaayika overcomes that problem and includes the three essential elements that are necessary for Soul Purification; that is, reciting mantras, acquiring knowledge, and meditation on Soul. While structured, the program encourages variety and demands that new learning occur. Learning the Saamaayika and including it as part of young Jain's regular religious routine gives assurance and confidence that they are doing proper Jain practice; and that the true purpose of being Jain, that is the purification of one's Soul, will occur.
In the interest of focusing your future study efforts, the four main insights of Jainism are included briefly, in outline format.
Y
Principles for Soul Purification
AATMAA (The Animating Essence of Sentinent Life). A Soul exists in every living being. Soul is eternal and indestructible; and has the potential for unlimited consciousness (i.e., vision and knowledge), energy and
hapiness. The real purpose and goal of human life is to purify the soul; thereby progressively experiencing one's true Self. Living within the guidelines of the following principles assists in attaining this objective.
1. Ahimsa (Non Harming). The natural state of the Soul is non harming. The universe is a field of evolution for all living beings toward their natural, pure state. Recognising these insights people try to live according to their nature by minimizing the harm they cause other life forms. A vegetarian/vegan diet is the natural lifestyle choice.
2. Anekaantavaada (The Manifold Nature of Reality). Reality is vast and complex. Each individual has had different experiences on which to base their knowledge and understanding. Thus differences between people can be seen as a natural occurence; and as such, an opportunity to learn from one another. The practice of Anekaantavaada leads to acceptance, tolerance, forgiveness, truth and respect for the ways and opinions of others.
3. Aparigraha (Limiting One's Possessions, Requirements and Attachments). Aparigraha enjoins a layperson to set limits to his/her desires and needs. Preoccupation with the external world detracts attention from one's real purpose of 'Soul Purification'. Aparigraha includes reducing one's attachments to persons and places as well.
4. Karma (Action-Reaction, Cause and Effects). Our actions (in thought, word and deed) in the present create our future experiences. Actions nio not in line with our true nature obstruct and experiences of the Self/Soul. Thus, controlling and reducing our inner enemies leads to increased consciousness, vitality and happi
ness.
'Soul Purification' means progressive, joyful, personal development through harmonizing our daily actions with the nature of our 'unlimited', true Self/Soul.
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