YJA Convention 1996 07 San Francisco CA Second

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

Page 42

6. Many distinguished their possessions between the need, comfort, and luxury
categories. It was generally felt that this was a very difficult - many items have become needs in modern society e.g. devices which save time like car, washing machine, etc. One participant discovered that in the case of all his possessions, he had much more than his needs yet he was tempted to do some shopping simply because he hadn't done any for one year.
However, after the experiment, people felt that they had a much clever idea of their needs.
7. When asked: 'Do you think that Jain principle of Aparigraha is useful in everyday
life? Is it practical in modern western society? One participant wrote: 'Without doubt. However, wed lack courage in our convictions. The modern world continues very hard to confuse us about our needs and is surely heading for great spiritual downfall. In a way, the principle of Aparigraha is more relevant in the West than anywhere else!'
Most people felt that it was very thought provoking and helped them to better understand the principle of Aparigraha. However, one participant strongly felt that this was an experiment for the monk, not the laymen!
9. Someone suggested - Man should be a master of his possessions, not a slave to
them! Good idea, but can we practice it simply by memorizing the statement!
10. Most people enjoyed very much the follow-up discussion. They felt that theirs was a
shared experience: one which they could relate to other people. It also answered the questions that arose about Jain philosophy.
2. Experiment on Asteya (Non-Stealing)
One of the five most important vows to be taken by Jains is 'asteya' which means nonstealing. Our immediate reaction to any such principle is: we are not thieves! i.e. we practice this vow as a part of everyday life. However, if we think a little deeper about the meaning of asteya, we find that it has much wider implications. Asteya could mean:
NOT TO:
evade the payment of tax; falsify any expense or insurance claims; overcharge for goods or services e.g. accountants charges fees on a time basis and the client relies on the honesty of the accountant in the calculation of fees; dishonesty claim government benefits; take personal credit for work done by others; use stationary or facilities at work (e.g. telephone) for personal affairs. At the least, these facilities should not be abused; to reveal any errors in one's favor e.g. if someone gives more change then is due to you; steal someone else's ideas and call it one's own.
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Jain Education Intemational