What if a jain monk tells you to do something incorrect
In Jain Dharma, even a monk’s words should be examined through the principles of Dharma.
If a Jain monk tells you to do something incorrect:
- Do not follow it simply because he is a monk.
- Check whether it is in agreement with Ahimsa, Satya, Aparigraha, and Jain conduct.
- A true Jain teaching will never support violence, deceit, greed, or harm.
- If something seems wrong, remain humble and respectful, but do not act against right conduct.
- You may quietly avoid it or seek clarification from another knowledgeable Jain teacher or scripture-based source.
In Jainism, right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct are important. Authority is respected, but Dharma is higher than personal opinion.
So the correct attitude is: respect the monk, but follow only what is right according to Jain principles.