Modes are infinite, and laws are infinite.
Interpretation
This quote suggests that the complexities of existence and the principles governing them are limitless.
Mahavira's statement highlights the idea that both the ways of being (modes) and the rules that govern existence (laws) are countless and varied. This reflects a fundamental understanding of the universe's complexity, urging us to recognize that our perceptions and experiences are not confined to a single interpretation or understanding of reality.
In practice
In a philosophical debate about existence, one might use this quote to illustrate the complexity of life.
If one undertakes retrospection of the day's events, one must do it regularly at the appointed hour, not fitfully, not doing it today, neglecting to do it tomorrow and the day after and then taking it up again on the fourth day. Such irregular practice is not conducive to the confirmation of the habit of retrospection.
If you want to cultivate a habit, do it without any reservation, till it is firmly established. Until it is so confirmed, until it becomes a part of your character, let there be no exception, no relaxation of effort.
Attachment and aversion are the root cause of karma, and karma originates from infatuation. Karma is the root cause of birth and death, and these are said to be the source of misery. None can escape the effect of their own past karma.
Start the practice of self-control with some penance; begin with fasting.
Anger begets more anger, and forgiveness and love lead to more forgiveness and love.
Eating constitutes the greatest obstacle to self-control; it gives rise to indolence.
I realized that all my life, my values were based upon typical middle-class American values: hard work, doing good, living well, owning things, following the rules & being the best I can be... but God clearly says, "those are not MY values. I value justice, mercy & humility.
We have seen enough criminality on the part of government. It is hypocritical to make this allegation against me. They have narrowed the public sphere of influence.
The mind, whatever else it is, is a constant of everyone's experience, and, in more ways than we know, the creator of the reality that we live within... Nothing is more essential to us.
The essence of the liberal outlook lies not in what opinions are held, but in how they are held; instead of being held dogmatically, they are held tentatively, and with a consciousness that new evidence may at any moment lead to their abandonment.
To be content with death may be better than to desire it.
One day some as yet unborn scholar will recognize in the clock the machine that has tamed the wilds.
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