Outlines of Jainism

SR No.: 007012
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: S Gopalan
Publisher: Wiley Eastern Private Limited New Delhi
Publication Year: 1973
Total Pages: 216
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 9 MB

Page 189

28
The Six-fold Monastic Order
TAINISM considers that preparation for attaining the ultimate J goal in life should not be postponed to that stage of life where there is complete renunciation. It maintains that renunciation is not physical merely, but is primarily mental. Hence the preparation to lead an ultimately spiritual life begins early in life. This is responsible for the two-fold classification of duties- the śrāvaka-dharma (the house-holder's duties) and the muni-dharma (the duties of the ascetic). We have already indicated that concession is allowed to the śravāka in the matter of observing the various virtues. In the case of the muni the five virtues of satya, ahiṁsā, asteya, brahmacarya and aparigraha are insisted to be followed very strictly. No laxity is allowed in his case.
The ideal in life for the muni is to have complete control over his body, mind and speech, for, only by perfecting himself in this regard can he observe the five virtues strictly and scrupulously. The endeavour to attain this three-fold control over himself is known as gupti. The Sarvārthasiddhi defines gupti as the supreme cause by virtue of which the jiva is able to transcend birth and death. In this process, observing moderation in regard to the physical side of his being is extremely helpful. Moderation must be observed in regard to walking, speaking, bodily wants, careful handling of objects and answering calls of nature. These are referred to as irya-samiti, bhāṣā-samiti, eșaņa-samiti, ādāna-nikșepaņa-samiti and
1 Sarvārthasiddhi, IX, 2