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GUIDLINES OF JAINISM

Bhadrabahu Vijay

The system of the seven institutions of the Jains

The important institutions of activity of the Jain Dharma are divided into seven kinds and they are technically called in the Shastras the Sapta Kshetra or theseven institutions of activity. They are described below. For the maintenance of these seven spheres. arrangements are made for the availability of the necessary funds. The fund meant for a particular institution is to be utilized only for that institution and not for any other. But if a necessity arises, the fund set apart for a lower institution may be used for a higher but that which has been set apart for a higher institution should not be used for a lower one. There is such a conventional practice.

The Jin Mandir - The temple.

The Jin Murti The idol of Jin.

Since these institutions are related to each other closely, the things set apart for these together may be used for any purpose from making the idols upto the construction and renovation of the temple. The fund set apart for these purposes is called ~'Devadravya".

Jin Agam ( The Jain scriptures and literature)

The fund set apart for this institution may be used for such things as the dissemination of the right knowledge, spreading the Jain doctrines, publishing books printing, writing and preservation of great books etc. The money may also be spent for the education of Sadhus and Sadhvis or for their teaching programs. This amount is called Jnan Dravya.

Sadhus and 5. Sadhvis

The money set apart for these institutions is to be spent for the maintenance of Sadhus and Sadhvis and for the support of their spiritual and austere life. This amount may also be spent for rendering service to them and for taking care of them. This is known as Vajavach Vibhag,

Shravaks 7. Shravikas

The amount set apart for the Shravaks and Shravikas is called Sadharan Dravya or Sadharmik Dravya. This amount is spent to help householders who are in difficulties or reduced circumstances. Such people are given economic assistance from this fund. Arrangements are also made to give them food-grain, clothes, medicines etc., at concession rates or even free of cost. The families that are in dire necessity are given all necessary help.

Apart from this, there is one institution called Jivadaya (kindness to animals and birds). The amount set apart for this is spent to provide all necessaries to animals and birds and to supply to them fodder, grain and water.