S Magge Ariehi Pavaiye

This Jain text, titled "S Magge Ariehi Pavaiye" by Prof. Kalyanmal Lodha, published in the "Shrimad Jayantsen Suri Abhinandan Granth," emphasizes the path of righteousness paved by the enlightened ones (Arihants). The core message revolves around the practical and universal relevance of Jainism, particularly its ethical principles and their application in both individual and societal life.

Key themes and arguments presented in the text include:

• The Nature of True Greatness: The text begins by quoting Acharya Samantabhadra, who asserts that true greatness lies not in worldly possessions or supernatural powers (like divine visitations, aerial feats, or celestial attendants), which can also be achieved by sorcerers. Instead, true greatness is in uncovering and revealing the truth. This aligns with the Upanishadic concept of unveiling the "mouth of truth" hidden by a golden vessel. Lord Mahavir's life and teachings are presented as the embodiment of this pursuit of truth.

• The Direct Experience of Liberation: Citing Umashvati, the text states that the happiness derived from Dharma is immediate. Those who overcome pride, control their body, speech, and mind, are free from desires and aspirations, attain liberation in this very lifetime and moment. This immediate spiritual attainment provides assurance and has both spiritual and worldly utility.

• The Essence of Dharma: Shreyas and Ahimsa: Dharma is defined as the pursuit of "Shreyas" (welfare or the ultimate good), leading to self-illumination and consciousness. Lord Mahavir's foundational teaching of Ahimsa (non-violence) – "Do not harm any creature, do not agitate, do not satiate, do not subjugate" – is highlighted as being universally acceptable for both individual upliftment (Atmodaya) and societal welfare (Lokodaya). Acharya Samantabhadra's description of Jainism as "Sarvodaya" (welfare of all) is also referenced.

• The Practical Utility of Jainism (Lokodaya/Sarvodaya): The text delves into the practical application of Jainism for the welfare of the world. It emphasizes the importance of Achar (conduct or practice), which forms the bedrock of human morality. The text draws parallels between the significance of the Bhagavad Gita in Vaishnavism and the Dhammapada in Buddhism, stating that the Uttaradhyayana Sutra holds a similar importance for Jainism.

• The Multifaceted Meaning of Achar: Different Jain acharyas are cited for their interpretations of Achar. Acharya Abhayadev defines it as conduct, practice, and behavior. The Sthananga Sutra categorizes it into five types: Jnana (knowledge), Darshan (perception), Charitra (conduct), Tapa (austerity), and Virya (energy). Ultimately, Achar is understood as righteous conduct, the foundation of morality, and a guiding force towards truth and well-being. The concept of Niti (policy or ethics) is derived from the root "ni" (to lead), implying guiding humanity towards truth and the welfare of the world.

• Humanity and Morality: Lord Mahavir's emphasis on Manushyattva (humanity) as the primary virtue is central. The text lists human birth, true Dharma, faith, and restraint as rare and precious. Human dignity, characterized by kindness, self-control, compassion, love, and service, is presented as the standard for humanity. Lord Mahavir's ultimate sermon stressed the rarity of human life, highlighting that humanity itself is the most coveted boon. He advocated for natural goodness, simplicity of mind, speech, and forgiveness, dedication to duty, and sincere internal realization of truth, which fosters universal consciousness and enables self-realization.

• Equanimity (Samata) and Its Significance: The text strongly advocates for Samata (equanimity or impartiality) as the core of Dharma. This equanimity, achieved through inner purity and freedom from attachment and aversion, leads to the manifestation of Ahimsa. Lord Mahavir granted humans the right to self-determination and self-discipline, advocating for the principle of Syadvada (relativity or manifold aspects of reality). The development of virtues like love, friendship, compassion, joy, and non-possession requires freedom from violence, negligence, attachment, hatred, delusion, falsehood, disgust, and anger, which are identified as hindrances to spiritual growth.

• Virtues and Their Cultivation: The text elaborates on various virtues that are essential for spiritual progress, including:

  • Patience (Kshama): Considered a destroyer of enmity and a sign of inner purity.
  • Humility (Mardava): The quality of being gentle.
  • Straightforwardness (Arjava): Simplicity and naturalness.
  • Purity (Shaucha): Detachment and freedom from greed.
  • Truthfulness (Satya): The source of wisdom and requires careful thought and speech, free from anger, greed, and fear.
  • Restraint (Sanyam): Crucial for self-realization, leading to inner purity and control of the senses.

• The Importance of Conduct and Inner Transformation: The text stresses that outward actions are preceded by inner purity and that thoughtful action is more important than mere knowledge. Lord Mahavir's teachings on the five vows (Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Aparigraha, Brahmacharya) are presented as universally accepted ethical principles that modern thinkers also endorse. The text argues that true spiritual progress and world peace can only be achieved through spiritual inspiration and the ethical elevation of human life.

• Overcoming Materialism and Selfishness: The text critiques the pursuit of wealth and possessions, viewing them as causes of fear and attachment. It emphasizes the need to overcome greed, anger, pride, delusion, attachment, and sensory desires to cross the ocean of existence. True strength and liberation are found within oneself, not externally.

• The Universal Appeal of Jain Ethics: The text concludes by highlighting the timeless and eternal nature of Lord Mahavir's ethical code, which harmonizes traditional and critical moral values. It suggests that internal and external sources of impurity must be addressed for liberation. Ultimately, self-realization requires not just scriptural study but moral transformation, urging individuals to seek truth personally. The text underscores that true worth is derived from actions and spiritual practice, not from birth or social status, and that equality for all beings is a fundamental principle. The example of Martin Luther's wife placing his body beneath a picture of Mahatma Gandhi signifies Gandhi's embodiment of Jain principles like non-violence, truth, friendship, compassion, and human equality.