Agam 29 Mool 02 Dasvaikalik Sutra Part 02 Sthanakvasi

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, Agam 29 Mool 02 Dasvaikalik Sutra Part 02, based on the Hindi translation and commentary "Acharmanjusha" by Ghasilal Maharaj:

Book Title: Agam 29 Mool 02 Dasvaikalik Sutra Part 02 Author: Ghasilal Maharaj Publisher: A B Shwetambar Sthanakwasi Jain Shastroddhar Samiti

This text is the second part of the Dasvaikalik Sutra, a fundamental Jain scripture, with a detailed commentary called "Acharmanjusha" by Acharya Ghasilal Maharaj. The commentary elucidates the principles of conduct and practice for Jain monks, particularly within the Sthanakvasi tradition.

The summary covers the key themes and chapters discussed in this volume, highlighting the emphasis on conduct (Achar), knowledge (Gyan), and their inseparable connection for achieving liberation (Moksha).

Core Jain Principles Emphasized:

• Inseparability of Gyan and Kriya: The text strongly advocates that true liberation is attained through the combined power of knowledge and action (Gyan and Kriya). Merely possessing knowledge without practicing righteous actions is considered incomplete and insufficient for Moksha.
• Importance of both Nayas (Perspectives): It stresses the necessity of understanding and practicing both the Nishchay Naya (ultimate reality perspective) and Vyavahar Naya (conventional reality perspective). Relying solely on one can lead to spiritual downfall.
• The Dasvaikalik Sutra's Essence: The commentary highlights that the Dasvaikalik Sutra specifically focuses on guiding monks on the path of Achar (conduct) alongside Gyan (knowledge).

Summary of Key Themes Across the Chapters (as described in the "Prastavana" and chapter summaries):

• Chapter 1 (Dharmaswaroop): Defines the nature of religion as Ahimsa (non-violence), Sanyam (restraint), and Tap (austerity). The commentary delves into the etymology of the word "Dharma" and elaborates on these three core tenets. It also emphasizes the importance of wearing a Sadarak Mukhavastrika (mouth covering tied with care) for air-confinement (Vayukay Sanyam) and details the principles of Niravadh Bhiksha (pure alms-seeking), including its six types.
• Chapter 2 (Navadikhshit Sanyam): Addresses the mental challenges faced by newly initiated monks. It narrates the dialogue between Rathanemi and Rajamati to help stabilize the mind wandering from the path of restraint. It also clarifies who is considered a true renunciate (Tyagi) and who is not (Atyagi).
• Chapter 3 (Bavan Anachirn): Details the fifty-two (52) undesirable practices (Anachirn) that renunciates must avoid, as these are detrimental to Sanyam (restraint). It provides directives for abandoning these practices.
• Chapter 4 (Shadkay Rakshan): Argues that avoiding the fifty-two Anachirn leads to the protection of the six types of living beings (Shadkay). This chapter describes the nature of these six categories of life and the methods for their protection. It emphasizes that one can truly understand the path of Yatan (carefulness) only through knowledge of Jiva (living beings) and Ajiva (non-living entities). Even those who take up the monastic path later in life are eligible for liberation.
• Chapter 5 (Bhiksha Vidhi): Explains the method of alms-seeking (Bhiksha Vidhi), which is crucial for the protection of the six categories of life.
• Chapter 6 (Adharah Sthan): States that by practicing Niravadh Bhiksha, one observes eighteen specific practices according to the scriptures. This chapter describes these eighteen points and emphasizes speaking Satya (truth) and Vyavahar Bhasha (conventional speech).
• Chapter 7 (Vachna Bhasha): Discusses the type of speech that monks observing the eighteen practices should use. It describes four types of speech, emphasizing that Satya (truth) and Vyavahar Bhasha (conventional speech) should be employed.
• Chapter 8 (Achar Roop Nidhi): Explains the five aspects of conduct (Achar), which are attained by those who observe the eighteen practices. It highlights the importance of Vinaya (humility and respect).
• Chapter 9 (Vinay Swaroop): Elaborates on the nature of Vinaya. Those who practice Vinaya can achieve liberation, and the knowledge of Jiva and Ajiva is key to this path.
• Chapter 10 (Bhikshu Swaroop): Defines the nature of a Bhikshu (monk) who follows the methods described in the previous nine chapters.

Specific Doctrinal Points and Practices Mentioned:

• The "Acharmanjusha" Commentary: Acharya Ghasilal Maharaj's commentary is highly regarded for its clarity and comprehensiveness, making the complex teachings of the Dasvaikalik Sutra accessible to both scholars and the general public.
• Concept of Nayas: The text strongly emphasizes the philosophical concept of Nayas (viewpoints) in Jainism, particularly Nishchay and Vyavahar, and how both are essential for a complete understanding of the path to liberation.
• Detailed Conduct Rules: The chapters outline specific rules for monks, including:
  • The importance of Ahimsa in all actions.
  • Precise guidelines for alms-seeking (Bhiksha), emphasizing purity and non-violence.
  • Detailed descriptions of the six categories of living beings (Shadkay) and the precautions to be taken to avoid harming them.
  • The prohibition of certain foods and actions that might involve violence or worldly attachment.
  • The rules regarding speaking truthfully and conventionally.
  • The significance of Vinaya in interacting with gurus and fellow monks.
  • The emphasis on controlling senses and desires.
  • Specific prohibitions against actions that might lead to spiritual decline, such as unnecessary speech, idle talk, or attachment to worldly possessions.
• Astadhyayan (18 Chapters/Topics): The summary within the text itself outlines the content of the 18 chapters covered in the Dasvaikalik Sutra, indicating the comprehensive nature of the teachings. These include topics like Mahachar Katha, Vakya Shuddhi, Achara Pranidhi, Vinay Samadhi, and more, all aiming at establishing righteous conduct.
• Rules for Swadhyay (Self-Study): The text provides strict guidelines on when not to engage in Swadhyay (reading scriptures), listing numerous "Aswadhyaya Prasangas" (occasions for non-study) related to celestial phenomena (like meteor showers, eclipses) and bodily events, highlighting the deep respect and carefulness involved in spiritual practice.

In essence, this volume of the Dasvaikalik Sutra, through Ghasilal Maharaj's detailed commentary, serves as a profound guide for Jain monks, emphasizing that true spiritual progress and eventual liberation are achieved through meticulous adherence to ethical conduct, mindful action, and a deep understanding of Jain philosophy. The text underscores the interconnectedness of knowledge, practice, and the ultimate goal of Moksha.