अप्पपसंसं परिहरह
By पण्डित कैलाशचन्द्र सिद्धान्तशास्री
Summary
The text emphasizes the importance of avoiding self-praise, stating that it leads to the destruction of one's own reputation and diminishes one's stature among people. It advises that one should always refrain from praising oneself, as doing so can destroy even well-earned fame. The act of self-praise is identified as a major fault, making a person as insignificant as straw in the eyes of others. Conversely, those who do not praise themselves do not lose their virtues. The text clarifies that not speaking of one's own qualities does not prevent their recognition, using the example of the sun, which does not proclaim its own brilliance yet its radiance is renowned throughout the world. The greatest virtue is identified as not praising oneself. Speaking of one's own virtues through words is described as a way to destroy them, while demonstrating virtues through one's conduct is a way to reveal and illuminate them. Those who express their virtues through actions rather than words are considered superior to all other people in the world. The source of these teachings is attributed to Acharya Shivarya's Bhagavati Aradhana.
Conclusion
This document underscores the profound ethical and social implications of self-praise within the Jain tradition. The core outcome is a clear distinction between self-promotion and genuine virtue: praising oneself is identified as a destructive act that nullifies one's own merits, reducing one's stature in the world. Conversely, the text establishes that true greatness lies in silent virtue, demonstrated through conduct rather than words. The ultimate implication is a redefinition of honor and reputation—not as something claimed, but as something that naturally emanates from a person of quality, much like the sun's inherent radiance. Therefore, the document advocates for a life of humility and integrity, where actions speak louder than any self-aggrandizing speech, positioning the modest individual as truly superior in society.