The message of Jina, Lord Mahävira the last Tirthankara, is carried by the Acharya, our spiritual leaders. The responsibility of the spiritual welfare of the entire Jain Sangh rests on the shoulders of the Acharyas. Before reaching this state, one has to do an in-depth study and have a thorough mastery of the Jain Agams. In addition to acquiring a high level of spiritual excellence, they also have the ability to lead the monastic communion. They should also know the various languages of the country and have acquired a sound knowledge of other philosophies, ideologies, and religions of the region and the world.
This title is given to those Sädhus who have acquired a special knowledge of the Agams (Jain scriptures) and philosophical systems. They teach Jain scriptures to deserving aspirants, including sädhus and sädhvis.
A male person who renounces the worldly life is called a monk or sädhu, and a female is called a nun or sadhvi. When householders become detached from the worldly aspects of life and aspire for spiritual uplift, they renounce their worldly lives and become Sädhus or Sädhvis, by accepting Deekshä. Before such initiation, they must stay with Sädhus or Sädhvis for a period of time to understand religious studies and to observe the code of conduct for renounced life. When they feel confident, they request an Ächärya to initiate them into the renounced order. If the Ächärya feels that they have the desire and capability to face the rigors of renounced life, then he gives them Deekshä. At the time of Deekshä, the newly initiated sadhu or sadhvi adopts five major vows:
Observance of Ahimsa (non-violence)-not to commit any type of violence (Savvao Panaivayao Virman Vrat)
Observance of Satya (truth)-not to indulge in any type of lie or falsehood (Savvao Musavayao Virman Vrat)
Observance of Asteya (non-stealing)-not to take anything unless it is given by the owner (Savvao Aadinnadanao Virman Vrat)
Observance of Brahamcharya (celibacy)-not to indulge in any sensual pleasure (Savvao Mehunao Virman Vrat)
Observance of Aparigraha (non-possessiveness)-not to acquire more than what is needed to maintain day to day life (Savvao Pariggrahao Virman Vrat) Some of the special things they observe are they do not accept the food cooked for them. They do not eat before sunrise or after sunset. They drink only boiled water. They walk bare feet. They do not stay in one place for a longer time. They do not touch any person of opposite sex. They do not get involved in social affairs there by meaning they are not a social workers. All nuns wear white clothes. They offer spiritual guidance to us. Their goal to become is to be liberated from this worldly life and that is why their activities are directed towards uplift of their souls to Paramätman (the state of liberation). Self-discipline and purity is the main part of their daily lives.
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