A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V Y
V
Silencing speech (practiced by ascetics), while symbols conveyed the message irrespective of the language they spoke.
Vaiyavratya. Service to the sadhus, especially those who are old and undergoing sallekhana.
Rock, stone, diamond. The human (nara) constitution or stamina (sahanan) is to a less or to a greater extent able to withstand the extremes of asceticism. There are three levels: 1. vajra narach sahanan – a constitution like a rock 2. vraṣabha (= strong as a bull) narach sahanan; 3. vajra vraṣabha sahanan. Only the latter is strong enough to lead to salvation, according to the ascetic tradition.
Feeling determining karmas. When it starts working one suffers. See also aghāti karma.
Sanskrit and Pali term for a (Buddhist) monastery. It originally meant ‘a secluded place in which to walk’, and referred to ‘dwellings’ or ‘refuges’ during the rainy season used by wandering monks. But in Jain terminology it vihāra means the moving of the ascetics from one place to the other.
Vigraha Gati. Without house (body). The soul is moving on the way from one embodiment to the other. It is the movement of the soul in the space where the soul abides (a very short time – 3 or 4 samayas) after leaving its last body before entering the next (subtle or physical) body.
Vindhyāgiri see Sravana Belagola.
Conduct of soul-force/ energy. The development of soul force for repulsion of the karmic forces with the view of attaining liberation.
Vītarāga Having no affinity for anything, being free from passion and attachment.
Religion in practicality, practical right conduct of the lay community.