Acharanga Stram Part 03

This document is Part 3 of the Acharanga Sutra, authored by Shilankacharya and published by Shravak Hiralal Hansraj. The text appears to be a Gujarati translation of the original Jain text, including the commentary by Shilankacharya.

The provided pages cover the latter part of the text, focusing on the "Shitoṣṇīya" (which translates to "related to heat and cold") chapter, which is the third chapter of the second section of the Acharanga Sutra. The core theme revolves around the Jain principles of endurance, equanimity, and detachment, particularly concerning the challenges faced by ascetics.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and concepts discussed in the provided pages:

Core Concepts:

• Endurance of Oppositions (Parishaha): A central theme is the necessity for ascetics to endure "parishaha," which are external hardships and internal struggles that test their resolve. The text specifically focuses on the impact of "shita" (cold) and "ushna" (heat) and how ascetics must face them with equanimity.
• Equanimity (Samabhava): Maintaining a balanced state of mind, free from attachment to pleasure and aversion to pain, is repeatedly emphasized. This applies to enduring heat and cold, as well as other hardships.
• Control of Passions (Kashaya): The text discusses conquering "kashaya" (passions like anger, pride, deceit, and greed) as a crucial aspect of spiritual progress. Overcoming these leads to "kevalgyana" (omniscience) and ultimately "moksha" (liberation).
• Niskhepa (Classification/Categorization): The text explores the concept of "niskhepa," which refers to different ways of classifying or understanding phenomena. This is applied to "shita" and "ushna," which are analyzed in terms of "nama" (name), "sthapana" (designation), "dravya" (substance), and "bhava" (state).
• Types of "Bhava" (States): The text delves into "bhava" states, categorizing them as "pudgalashrayi" (related to matter) and "jivashrayi" (related to the soul). It further elaborates on "audayika" (resulting from karma), "aupshamika" (resulting from suppression of karma), and "kshayika" (resulting from destruction of karma) states, associating them with "ushna" (heat) and "shita" (cold).
• The Nature of Suffering and Bliss: The text contrasts worldly suffering ("ushna") with spiritual bliss ("shita"), linking the former to passions and the latter to liberation and equanimity.
• The Path to Liberation (Moksha): The ultimate goal is liberation from the cycle of birth and death, achieved through right conduct, knowledge, and penance, and by overcoming the "karmas" that bind the soul.
• The Importance of Renunciation and Detachment: The text highlights the need for ascetics to renounce worldly possessions, attachments, and desires to achieve their spiritual goals.
• Distinguishing True Asceticism: The text implicitly contrasts genuine asceticism with mere outward appearances or rituals, emphasizing the internal state of equanimity and detachment.

Specific Mentions and Sections:

• Chapter Structure: The text indicates that this is the third chapter, following the "Shastra Parigyan" and "Lokvijay" chapters. It discusses the connection of this chapter to the previous ones, particularly in relation to enduring hardships.
• "Shitoṣṇīya" Study: The title itself points to the focus on enduring heat and cold.
• Nishkepa Analysis: The text dedicates significant portions to explaining the four "nishkepa" (name, designation, substance, and state) as applied to heat and cold, both in their material and spiritual aspects.
• Bhava States: The explanation of "audayika," "aupshamika," and "kshayika" bhavas provides a nuanced understanding of the soul's experience and its relation to spiritual states.
• The Role of "Parishaha": The text explains how enduring "parishaha" (hardships) is integral to the ascetic's path. It distinguishes between different types of "parishaha" and their impact on the individual.
• The Concept of "Nidra" and "Jagran" (Sleep and Wakefulness): This is a significant theme, discussing both literal sleep and metaphorical spiritual sleep (ignorance) versus spiritual wakefulness (enlightenment). It emphasizes that true wakefulness lies in understanding and practicing the Dharma.
• The Importance of Right Knowledge and Conduct: The text stresses that mere endurance without right knowledge and conduct is insufficient. True liberation comes from understanding the nature of suffering, its causes, and the path to its cessation.
• The Critique of Non-Jain Asceticism: While not explicitly named, the text seems to differentiate Jain asceticism from practices that might involve violence or attachment, implicitly criticizing them through its emphasis on strict non-violence and detachment.
• Detailed Karmic Analysis: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to the intricacies of "karma," explaining its various types, their "bandha" (bondage), "udaya" (manifestation), and "satva" (existence) in different "gunasthanas" (stages of spiritual development). This reflects the detailed analytical approach within Jain philosophy regarding the mechanics of karma.

In essence, Part 3 of the Acharanga Sutra, as presented in these pages, is a profound exposition on the ascetic's inner journey, focusing on the critical role of equanimity, self-control, and the unwavering pursuit of spiritual knowledge and liberation by understanding and transcending worldly dualities and the intricate workings of karma.