Acharang Sutram Part 02

This is a summary of the Acharanga Sutra Part 02, focusing on the content related to the Eiyeshana (Conduct) chapter, specifically the sections related to Paatraishana (Vessels/Utensils) and Avagraha Pratima (Conditions for Acceptance), and Sthana (Place for Retreat/Dwelling).

The text is presented as a commentary and explanation by Acharya Samrat Shri Atmaramji Maharaj, with editing by Acharya Samrat Dr. Shivmuni Ji Maharaj. The publisher is Atma-Gyan-Shraman-Shiv-Agam-Prakashan-Samiti.

The provided text is extensive and covers detailed guidelines for Jain ascetics (monks and nuns) regarding their conduct, particularly concerning obtaining and using things like food, water, clothing, and shelter. Here's a breakdown of the key themes and rules discussed within the provided pages, focusing on the latter part of the document which seems to be the core of the request:

Key Themes and Rules for Ascetic Conduct:

1. Dealing with Unsuitable Places (Upaashraya):

• Prohibited Places: Ascetics are instructed to avoid dwelling or performing activities like kayotsarga (standing meditation) in places that are:
  • Saturated with Life: Containing eggs (saanda), spider webs (sasantaanaka), or other numerous living beings.
  • Unclean or Improperly Prepared: Places that are not properly cleaned, have residual food particles, or are inherently unsuitable (e.g., unclean water sources).
  • Associated with Unsuitable Activities: Places where people are fighting, quarreling, engaging in sexual acts, or where cooking and other domestic activities are ongoing.
  • Related to Vows of Others: Places specifically designated for others' vows or activities, which might lead to conflict or imposition.
  • Adorned with Pictures: Places adorned with images of humans or other beings are to be avoided, as they can be distracting and lead to attachment or other defilements.
  • Chemically Treated or Scented: Places where the ascetic's body or garments might be altered by chemicals or perfumes.
  • Unstable or Dangerous: Places that are structurally unsound, or where there's a risk of falling or injury.
• Suitable Places: Ascetics should seek out places that are clean, free from living beings, well-prepared, and conducive to their spiritual practice.

2. Handling Food and Vessels (Paatraishana):

• Rules for Accepting Food:
  • Purity: Ascetics must ensure the food is pure (praasuka) and fit for consumption (aeshaniya). This involves checking for the absence of living beings, seeds, sprouts, insects, improper preparation, etc.
  • Acceptable Forms: Specific guidelines are given regarding the form of food – for instance, fruits should be properly ripened and processed (e.g., cut or crushed) in a way that minimizes harm to living beings.
  • Vessels: Rules are provided for the types of vessels allowed (e.g., gourd, wood, clay) and those that are prohibited (e.g., metal, gemstone-studded, ornate). The condition of the vessel matters – it should be clean and properly prepared.
  • Doubtful Items: If there is any doubt about the purity or suitability of food or vessels, the ascetic should avoid them.
• Rules for Handing over Food/Vessels:
  • Cleanliness: When giving food or water to an ascetic, it should be done with clean hands and clean vessels, free from any contaminants or impurities.
  • No Alteration: Ascetics should not ask for food or vessels to be specially prepared or altered to their liking. They should accept what is offered if it meets the criteria of purity and suitability.
  • Honesty: If food is offered, it should be presented truthfully. If it's leftovers or of a mixed nature, it should be conveyed as such.

3. Avagraha (Acceptance/Permission):

• Conditions for Acceptance: Ascetics need permission to accept certain items or to stay in certain places.
  • Specific Items: Rules are laid down for accepting specific items like robes, vessels, or even permission to stay in a particular dwelling.
  • Asking Permission: Permission should be sought respectfully, and the terms of acceptance (e.g., duration of stay) should be clear.
  • Respect for Others: When taking items or places that have been previously used or offered to others (including ascetics of other traditions or householders), specific protocols must be followed. This includes seeking permission from the original owners or users and ensuring no harm comes to them or their possessions.
  • Fourfold Classification: The text describes four types of avagraha (conditions for acceptance), which relate to how an ascetic should approach seeking and accepting something. These seem to emphasize clarity, proper procedure, and respect for the giver and the rules.

4. Conduct during Travel/Vihar:

• Eiyeshana: The text extensively discusses Eiyeshana, the principle of careful and harmless movement. This includes:
  • Awareness of Surroundings: Being mindful of the path ahead, avoiding stepping on living beings, plants, or water.
  • Route Selection: Choosing paths that are less prone to causing harm.
  • Night Travel: Restrictions on traveling at night are implied due to the increased risk of harming unseen life.
  • Water Crossings: Specific rules for crossing water bodies, including the method of using a boat and the conduct within it.
  • Dealing with Obstacles: How to navigate around or deal with natural obstacles like rivers, forests, or dangerous terrains.
• Interaction with Others during Travel:
  • Avoiding Suspicious Situations: Not traveling with or engaging in unnecessary conversation with people who might lead to spiritual downfall.
  • Honesty with Pathik (Travelers): When asked by travelers, ascetics should be truthful but concise and avoid unnecessary details or gossip.
  • Dealing with Danger: In situations of danger (like robbery or attack), ascetics should maintain equanimity and follow specific guidelines to minimize harm to themselves and others, prioritizing their spiritual vows.

5. Conduct in Dwelling Places (Upaashraya):

• Inspection: Ascetics must thoroughly inspect any dwelling place before residing there, checking for living beings, impurities, and suitability for their practice.
• Hygiene: Specific instructions are given regarding cleaning the dwelling and maintaining personal hygiene, especially concerning the disposal of bodily impurities.
• Respect for Property: Respect for the dwelling and any items belonging to the householder is paramount.

Overall Tone and Purpose: The text emphasizes a life of extreme non-violence (ahimsa), self-control (samyama), and detachment (vairagya). The rules are meticulously detailed to ensure that the ascetic's life is conducted in a way that minimizes harm to all living beings (panchastikaya) and leads towards spiritual liberation (moksha). The emphasis is on internal purity and conduct (bhava) over external show.

The commentary by the learned Acharyas provides context and deeper understanding, often referencing other scriptures and philosophical concepts within Jainism. The detailed nature of the rules highlights the profound commitment required of Jain ascetics.