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.
