Question

Arrange the following virtues of the Ten-Fold Dharma (Dashalakshana) in the correct canonical sequence:
A. Uttam Tap (Penance)
B. Uttam Satya (Truth)
C. Uttam Mardav (Humility)
D. Uttam Kshama (Forgiveness)
E. Uttam Akinchanya (Non-attachment)

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

Hint:

Always start with Kshama (Forgiveness) and end with Brahmacharya (Celibacy). This 10-fold dharma is the essence of Jain ethics.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Dashalakshana Dharma are the ten supreme virtues practiced by Jains, particularly during the festival of Paryushan. They represent the path of internal purification.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The canonical sequence from the Tattvartha Sutra (9.6) is:
1. Uttam Kshama (D): Forgiveness.
2. Uttam Mardav (C): Humility (Destruction of pride).
3. Uttam Arjav (Not in list): Honesty.
4. Uttam Shauch (Not in list): Purity.
5. Uttam Satya (B): Truth.
6. Uttam Sanyam (Not in list): Self-control.
7. Uttam Tap (A): Penance/Austerity.
8. Uttam Tyag (Not in list): Renunciation.
9. Uttam Akinchanya (E): Non-attachment/Poverty.
10. Uttam Brahmacharya (Not in list): Celibacy.

The relative order of the items provided is D, C, B, A, E.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The virtues follow the spiritual path from Forgiveness to Non-attachment.