Question

Arrange the following stages of Conduct (Charitra) in the correct order, from beginning to end:
A. Chedopasthapana
B. Yathakhyata
C. Sukshmasamparaya
D. Samayika
E. Pariharavishuddhi

• A. B, A, E, C, D
• B. B, E, A, D, C
• C. D, A, E, C, B
• D. D, C, B, E, A

Hint:

Always remember that Yathakhyata is the highest (final) and Samayika is the foundational (first). This helps eliminate incorrect sequences immediately.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
In Jainism, Charitra (Conduct) is the final part of the "Triple Jewels" necessary for liberation. As a soul progresses spiritually through the Gunasthanas (stages of spiritual development), its conduct becomes increasingly refined. There are five specific stages of conduct described in the Tattvartha Sutra.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The five types of conduct in their progressive order are:
1. Samayika (D): The basic state of equanimity where the monk vows to avoid all sinful activities for life. This is the first step of asceticism.
2. Chedopasthapana (A): Re-initiation or establishment of vows after a lapse, or the formal transition to a more rigorous discipline (like after the period of apprenticeship).
3. Pariharavishuddhi (E): A special type of high-level conduct where a monk practices extraordinary purity while traveling and serving under a specific master for a long duration. This is not attained by all monks.
4. Sukshmasamparaya (C): Conduct with only a subtle trace of greed. This corresponds to the 10th spiritual stage (Gunasthana). All other passions are gone.
5. Yathakhyata (B): "As it is" conduct. This is the highest state of perfect conduct, free from all passions, attained in the 11th to 14th stages. It is the conduct of the Vitaraga (one who has transcended all attachment).

Following this progression, the sequence is D $\rightarrow$ A $\rightarrow$ E $\rightarrow$ C $\rightarrow$ B.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct spiritual sequence of conduct is Samayika, Chedopasthapana, Pariharavishuddhi, Sukshmasamparaya, and Yathakhyata.