Temptation and its Control
By Jeoraj Jain
Summary
Temptation, or Lobha, refers to excessive attachment to wealth, power, and their growth, considered the most dangerous passion (Kashaya) and the root of sins. It is the last to decay during the elimination of Kashayas. The Sthananga Sutra describes greed as "Amish Vrat Samane Lobhe," linking it to repeated sorrows and misfortune (Anartha). Four types of greed exist based on intensity: Anantanubandhi, Apratyaakhyani, and Pratyaakhyani. Greed arises from Triishna, a strong desire for unacquired resources, fueled by the false belief that material wealth brings happiness. It grows due to unlimited acquisition of possessions, space, and power, often accompanied by increased wickedness like violence, untruth, and stealing. Anger, pride, illusion, evil thoughts, and covetous behavior further intensify greed. A greedy person exhibits a "mine is mine, and yours is also mine" attitude, lacking humility and humanity, constantly focusing on what remains unacquired despite accumulating wealth.
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Conclusion
The document highlights the profound implications of temptation (Lobha) as a destructive force rooted in excessive attachment to wealth and power, emphasizing its role as a primary cause of suffering and misfortune. Dr. Jain’s analysis underscores that greed, driven by limitless desires and false beliefs about materialism, fosters negative behaviors like violence and dishonesty while eroding humility and ethical conduct. By categorizing greed into four intensity levels and linking it to broader societal and spiritual consequences, the text advocates for self-awareness and restraint. The insights offer a framework for understanding how unchecked ambition leads to personal and collective harm, urging a shift toward mindful living to mitigate these adverse outcomes.