Page 174 - Faith Personified
P. 174

But this is not so. Engaging your mind in pure thoughts and
           reflections and sinking deep into the study of scriptures is a
           sure shot way to expel these karmas and impressions of lust.

           Infinite souls have successfully done so, observed celibacy and
           strict penance and thus paved their way to salvation.

           Supporting and nourishing lust is dangerous.


           O bearer of Samyagdarshan! Inspired by lust, indulgence in
           sexual pleasures is dangerous because,

              1) If by chance you lose focus and get deeply involved in
                 those pleasures, the increase in passion is sure to bind
                 karmas capable of sending you to hell. Imagine the
                 torment and torture inflicted upon you in hell for
                 innumerable years at a stretch! While indulging in

                 such pleasures, is there any guarantee that we will not
                 lose control over ourselves? Why dig our own grave?

              2) In addition to the binding of karmas, indulging in
                 these momentary pleasures leave long-lasting
                 impressions on the soul, which become difficult to wipe
                 out. In today’s circumstances, when we have got the
                 supreme shelter of God, Guru and Religion, can’t we

                 overcome these temptations? If not today, in which
                 birth will we be able to do so? With time, these
                 impressions will deepen. Then, will overcoming them
                 become easier or more difficult?

              3) The other major threat in strengthening lust is that



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