Purusharth Siddhyupaya
By Unexhibited
Summary
In Purushartha Siddhyupaya, the text outlines key principles for Jain believers to cultivate right faith and conduct. It emphasizes maintaining clarity and avoiding influence from false scriptures, religions, or misrepresented deities. The fifth pillar of right faith, Upavrinhana, involves practicing universal toleration, simple living, and high thinking while overlooking others' faults. The sixth pillar, Steadiness (sthitikarnam), requires stabilizing one's and others' beliefs through reason and argumentation, resisting skepticism. The seventh pillar, Vatsalya, advocates deep affection for Jainism, non-violence (Ahimsa), and the pursuit of eternal happiness. Believers should also radiate their self through the three jewels—right faith, knowledge, and conduct—enhancing Jainism's glory via charity, austerity, and learning. Right knowledge, distinct from but co-existent with right faith, must be acquired carefully through Jain philosophy and logic. It should be free from doubt, falsity, and vagueness, with proper study of scriptures, correct use of terms, and respectful retention of knowledge. The text underscores systematic spiritual progression, stressing devotion and disciplined inquiry.
Conclusion
This treatise establishes a comprehensive framework for spiritual evolution through the cultivation of Right Faith, emphasizing its seven pillars: unwavering belief in Tattwas, universal toleration, steadiness against passions, genuine affection for Jain principles, and self-illumination through the Three Jewels. It underscores the transformative power of Right Faith as the foundation for acquiring Right Knowledge, enabling believers to discern truth, overcome skepticism, and progress toward enlightenment. The text's unique contribution lies in its systematic approach to fortifying faith against falsehoods and fostering virtues like tenderness, simplicity, and non-attachment, ultimately guiding adherents toward the ultimate treasure of Ahimsa and eternal happiness.