The intent: “What I am saying is true and, therefore,
others should believe it,” is also a horrible disease! Right and
correct speech will be accepted by the other person, with
certainty. And if he does not accept it, then you should let it go.
Speech that is free of mistake only occurs when one does
not have ‘ownership’ of its words. If the sense (or intent) of, “I
spoke so nicely,” is there, then there is definitely ‘ownership’ in
the speech.
In religious discussion, one way to defend one’s own self
is through speech. Another way would be to remain in a state
that is free of anger, pride, deceit and greed (kashays) and then
‘convince’ the listener. And if while trying to change the other
person, you yourself become affected by the conversation, you
too will change as a result, which would be yet another way.
The Gnani, whose conduct is vitarag (absolutely free from
attachment and abhorrence) has syadvaad speech, which is
sweet and pleasant, and does not shock or evoke a reaction
within the listener. Such speech, which is completely without
insistence, will touch the hearts of others; only then salvation for
the listener will occur. Such speech is unparalleled as it is replete
with the Gnani’s miraculous spiritual energy. We can attain it as
well, by praying with the intent, “Let my speech also be this way.”
One is said to have energy and power in speech
(vachanbud) when everyone hearing it, conduct themselves with
enthusiasm, according to words! That which destroys the power
of one’s speech is: misuse of speech, threats, lying to protect
oneself and undue insistence. The speech that hurts others’ hearts
will result in one losing the ability to speak in one’s next life.
“I do not want to give the slightest pain to anyone at all.
I pray to attain such power and energy of speech.” The Gnani
fulfills this for that he asks this. When a person remains silent
(maun), where there is room for him to speak up, the energy of
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