Agam 30 Mool 03 Uttaradhyayana Sutra Part 01 Sthanakvasi - Book Summary

This document is the first part of the Uttaradhyayana Sutra, specifically Agam 30, Mool 03, from the Sthanakvasi Jain tradition, authored by Ghasilal Maharaj and published by A B Shwetambar Sthanakvasi Jain Shastroddhar Samiti. The provided text includes pages 1 through 256, and the beginning of the second chapter.

Here's a comprehensive summary in English, focusing on the content of the provided pages and the initial parts of the second chapter:

Overall Nature of the Text:

This is a publication of a significant Jain scripture, the Uttaradhyayana Sutra, presented with a commentary titled "Priyadarsini" by Acharya Ghasilalji Maharaj. The text includes the original Sanskrit-Prakrit verses, along with Hindi and Gujarati translations and a detailed commentary. The initial pages are filled with introductory material, including auspicious greetings (Namaskar Mahavra), acknowledgments, dedications, and numerous commendatory letters (Sammati Patra) from various prominent Jain acharyas and scholars, attesting to the value and importance of Acharya Ghasilalji Maharaj's work. This preamble highlights the rigorous research, scholarly approach, and spiritual depth of the commentary.

Key Themes and Content:

Auspicious Beginnings (Page 1): The text begins with the fundamental Jain invocation, "Namo Arihantanam, Namo Siddhanam, Namo Aayariyanam, Namo Uvajjhayanam, Namo Loye Savva Sadhuunam," emphasizing the five supreme beings (Panch Namaskar) and their power to destroy sins and bring auspiciousness.
Scholarly Undertaking (Pages 2-6): The publication plan, led by Shri Chandra P. Doshi, is detailed. The commentary by Ghasilalji Maharaj is highlighted, along with its translation into Hindi and Gujarati. The publisher, Akhil Bharat Shwetambar Sthanakvasi Jain Shastroddhar Samiti, is acknowledged for their efforts in preserving and propagating Jain scriptures. The support and endorsements from various respected Mahatmas, Mahasatijis, professors, and scholars underscore the significance of this work.
Endorsements and Testimonials (Pages 7-27): A substantial portion of the initial pages is dedicated to numerous "Sammati Patra" (letters of approval/endorsement). These come from highly respected figures like Acharya Shri 1008 Shri Atmārāmjī Maharaj (who provides extensive commendations for Ghasilalji's work on various scriptures, including Upāsakadashānga Sūtra, Jñātādharmakathānga Sūtra, Āchārānga Sūtra, Anuttaraupapatik Sūtra, and Nirayāvalikā Sūtra). Other prominent individuals and organizations also provide their endorsements, praising the clarity, depth, and scholarship of Ghasilalji Maharaj's commentary and the overall importance of the scripture itself for the Jain community. These testimonials span several decades, indicating a sustained appreciation for the work.
Introduction to Uttaradhyayana Sutra (Page 57 onwards): The actual text of the Uttaradhyayana Sutra begins with the Mangalacharan (auspicious invocation). The commentary, "Priyadarsini," by Ghasilalji Maharaj, is introduced.
Mangalacharan (Pages 57-63): The first chapter (Adhyayan 1) starts with verses that pay homage to Lord Mahavir, the last Tirthankara. The commentary explains these verses, highlighting Mahavir Swami's role in saving beings from the ocean of samsara (worldliness) through his pure and beneficial teachings. The commentary also emphasizes the concept of the soul's self-efficacy and the destructive nature of impurities like attachment. The publisher's intent to make these profound teachings accessible is also mentioned.
Guru Vandana (Page 61-62): The text then moves to the veneration of the Guru, describing the ideal qualities of a spiritual teacher – adherence to the five samitis (restraints), three guptis (controls), constant practice of self-restraint, forbearance, adherence to correct conduct, and the use of a mouth-covering (mukha-vastrika). The commentary emphasizes the importance of the Guru in guiding disciples towards liberation.
The Significance of Uttaradhyayana Sutra (Page 63-64): The text clarifies that Uttaradhyayana Sutra, being the final discourse of Lord Mahavir, holds particular importance. It is described as containing the essence of the entire twelve Angas (limbs of Jain scripture), summarized for the benefit of the lay followers and ascetics alike. The name "Uttaradhyayana" itself is explained as referring to the ultimate and most important discourses.
The First Adhyayan: Vinaya (Pages 65-156): The first adhyayan, titled "Vinaya," is introduced.
- Consequences of Association: The commentary begins by explaining the detrimental effects of worldly attachments and associations (samyoga). The story of Sudhan, a merchant's son, is narrated to illustrate how worldly possessions are impermanent and lead to sorrow.
- The Undisciplined Mind: The text emphasizes the need to control the mind, which is depicted as a wild elephant or a restless monkey. Stories and examples are used to illustrate how an uncontrolled mind leads to suffering and spiritual downfall.
- The Virtues of Vinaya (Discipline): The importance of Vinaya (discipline, humility, respect for elders and teachers) is extensively discussed. The virtues of a disciplined disciple (Vinita) are detailed, contrasting them with the negative traits of an undisciplined disciple (Avinita). The story of Gunānidhi illustrates the ideal disciple's conduct.
- Purity of Speech: The text delves into the importance of right speech (Vachana Yati). It warns against impure, meaningless, or hurtful words (Savadh and Nirarthak Bhashan). The narrative of Acharya Ghasilalji's own work is a testament to meticulous and pure speech.
- The Nature of Words: The text discusses the power of speech and how words can be a source of immense spiritual benefit or great harm. The importance of contemplating the meaning of words and speaking truthfully and thoughtfully is stressed.
- The Dangers of Anger and Mistake: The commentary highlights how anger (Krodha) and mistakes can lead to downfall, using the example of Chanda Rudracharya's disciple to illustrate the negative consequences of misbehavior.
- The Ideal Disciple: The ideal disciple is portrayed as one who is mindful, humble, attentive to the teacher's slightest hint (ingita), and always ready to serve and learn.
- The Value of the Teaching: The text emphasizes that true learning comes from the Guru and that one should not rely solely on texts but on the guidance of a qualified teacher.
The Beginning of the Second Adhyayan: Parīṣaha (Pages 265 onwards): The second chapter, titled "Parīṣaha" (endurance of hardships), begins.
- Introduction to Parīṣaha: The text introduces the concept of Parīṣaha as inevitable trials and tribulations that a renunciant (Shraman) must face and overcome to progress on the spiritual path. The commentary explains the connection between Vinaya (from the first chapter) and the ability to endure Parīṣaha.
- The List of Twenty-Two Parīṣaha: The sutra lists twenty-two types of Parīṣaha that were taught by Lord Mahavir. These include:
  1. Kṣudhā (Hunger)
  2. Pipāsā (Thirst)
  3. Śīta (Cold)
  4. Uṣṇa (Heat)
  5. Daṁśa-maśaka (Insect bites)
  6. Achaila (Nudity/Lack of clothing)
  7. Arati (Disgust/Discontent)
  8. Strī (Women/Sensual temptation)
  9. Charyā (Wandering/Movement)
  10. Naiṣēdhikī (Sitting/Dwelling place)
  11. Śayyā (Bed/Lying down)
  12. Ākrośa (Abuse/Insults)
  13. Vadha (Striking/Beating)
  14. Yācanā (Begging/Asking)
  15. Alābha (Not getting)
  16. Roga (Sickness)
  17. Tṛṇa-sparśa (Touch of grass/roughness)
  18. Mala (Dirt/Filth)
  19. Satkāra-puraskāra (Honor/Respect)
  20. Prajñā (Intellectual knowledge)
  21. Ajñāna (Ignorance)
  22. Darśana (Perverted faith/views)
- Explanation of Parīṣaha: The commentary begins to explain each Parīṣaha, starting with Kṣudhā (Hunger) and Pipāsā (Thirst). The text provides specific examples and detailed explanations of what constitutes each hardship and how a monk should ideally respond to it with equanimity and detachment.
- Example of Kṣudhā (Hunger) and Pipāsā (Thirst) Parīṣaha: The commentary uses illustrative stories, such as the example of Dhṛḍhavīrya Muni and Sudhan Vanik's son (though the latter is from the first adhyayan but illustrates dealing with worldly temptations), to explain how to endure these hardships. The emphasis is on inner strength, detachment, and maintaining equanimity regardless of external circumstances or physical discomfort. The story of Arhahnnaka Muni illustrates dealing with physical hardship and the consequences of attachment. The story of Somadeva Muni shows the importance of detachment from even useful comforts like clean water when facing thirst.

Overall Significance:

This publication of the Uttaradhyayana Sutra, with the Priyadarsini commentary by Acharya Ghasilalji Maharaj, is presented as a comprehensive and authoritative resource for understanding this vital Jain text. The extensive endorsements highlight its value for Jain scholars and practitioners. The text systematically explains the principles of Jain conduct, particularly focusing on the importance of Vinaya (discipline) in the first chapter and the need for enduring Parīṣaha (hardships) in the second chapter, providing practical guidance and moral examples for a spiritual life.

The summary reflects the content as provided in the pages. The full scope of the Uttaradhyayana Sutra is vast, covering many aspects of Jain philosophy, ethics, and monastic practice.