YJA Convention 2002 07 NJ Fifth

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

Page 68

Life of an Ascetic
Samaniji Charitrapragyaji | Samaniji Shardapragyaji
Ja
ainism is a soul-oriented religion having its antiquity and rich heritage of art and culture. The destination of each individual soul is to attain eternal happiness-that is liberation.
How that can be achieved?
Just as there are rules of religion for the Shravaks, the
♦ What are the pathways to make our soul closer ascetics live by their own code of conduct - a disciplined to it? lifestyle in which they lead their lives. Participants would
♦ Does it take long process or we can figure out get an idea about their food, clothing, shelter and travel some right exists to be at our home?
issues and how they deal with it.
What's the aim of our life?
♦ Where I want to go?
What kind of success do I really desire?
♦ Why this human life is considered so important? These are few queries make us to think over and over and to find out the answers from our inner self - the inner voice which never betrays us but take us to the right track. However in this so-called modern world, it is very significant to talk about such a life giving mental satisfaction and peace.
notes:
The points mentioned above will be discussed by recruiting the important aspects, events and ceremonies taking place before becoming an ascetic and after being an ascetic. Samanjis' own experience narrated at the session will make it livelier.
Jain Education International 2010-0
Answers can also be had for questions like how does one qualify to become an ascetic? What is the hierarchy in the ascetic order? In the 21st century, how do the
ascetics spread Jainism for and wide while keeping the spirit of Jainism intact?■
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