अर्थ में ओझल विवेक

Summary

The text discusses the relationship between wealth and suffering, arguing that while people acquire wealth for happiness, it often brings attachment and sorrow. It states that the root of suffering is attachment, and the root of attachment is wealth, which is why Lord Mahavira advocated for limiting desires and possessions for spiritual growth. A story illustrates this: an old woman sold her jewelry to make her son a doctor. He married a female doctor, and they moved to the city, abandoning her. When she fell ill, she sought treatment from her son, recovered, and returned home. Her daughter-in-law then sent a letter demanding rent for the clinic stay and medicine costs. The old woman responded by itemizing the costs of raising and educating her son, asking for the balance after deducting medical expenses. This made the daughter-in-law realize her mistake. The text argues that in today's materialistic society, relationships are secondary to wealth, leading to imbalance, mental stress, and anxiety. It asserts that wealth beyond necessity is useless, as needs are minimal but desires are limitless. The principle of aparigraha (non-possessiveness) is presented as essential for a balanced life, linking it to non-violence, as possession leads to violence. It notes that limited wealth can bring happiness, but unlimited wealth brings suffering, affecting natural functions like hunger and sleep. The text concludes that controlling desires, limiting consumption, and earning through ethical means can balance wealth and spirituality, and that aparigraha is key to solving life's problems and achieving greatness.