Agam 30 Prakirnak 07 Gacchachar Sutra

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Agam 30 Prakirnak 07 Gacchachar Sutra" based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Agam 30 Prakirnak 07 Gacchachar Sutra (also referred to as Gacchāyāra Painṇayam or Gacchācāra-Prakīrṇaka) Author(s): Not explicitly stated for the original text, but the English version is by Colonel D. S. Baya 'Sreyas'. The preface mentions the original text was edited by Muni Śri Punyavijayaji and the Hindi translation was done by Dr. Suresh Sisodiya. Publisher: Agama Ahimsa Samata Evam Prakrta Samsthana, Udaipur.

Overall Purpose: The Gacchācāra Prakīrṇaka is a Jain canonical text that focuses on the conduct and discipline within monastic groups (Gachas). It emphasizes the importance of adhering to strict monastic principles and condemns laxity and comfort-seeking in religious life. The text aims to guide monks and nuns towards righteous living and spiritual liberation.

Key Themes and Content:

1. The Nature of Gachas (Monastic Groups):

   • The term "Gaccha" is explored, tracing its evolution from an earlier concept of "Gana" (monastic division) to its later use signifying a monastic group or lineage.
   • The text highlights the historical development of Gachas, noting their emergence after the 6th century AD and their widespread use around the 10th century.
   • It differentiates between "good" and "bad" or "wayward" monastic groups.

2. Characteristics of a Righteous Monastic Group:

   • A righteous Gaccha is defined by its adherence to canonical injunctions, proper control over the activities of its members, knowledge of scriptural meaning, a desire for liberation, vigilance in vows, steadfastness in duties, and freedom from attachment and aversion.
   • Emphasis is placed on respecting seniority, even by a single day.
   • Monks should not accept food from nuns, even in dire circumstances.
   • Strict separation between monks and nuns is strongly advocated, comparing their contact to fire or poison.
   • Monks should not cause harm to any living beings, even under threat of death.
   • Monks should consume only treated, lifeless water.
   • The practice of extreme penance and the pursuit of spiritual detachment are praised.
   • Humility, sense control, non-violence, and adherence to canonical rules are paramount.

3. Characteristics of a Wayward Monastic Group:

   • Wayward groups are characterized by laxity, comfort-seeking, wilfulness, and a disregard for strict monastic discipline.
   • Monks in such groups are described as corrupt, comfort-loving, and prone to mundane gossip.
   • The text criticizes the practice of living in temples (Caityavāsi tradition) and the adoption of lifestyles resembling those of Hindu monastic leaders (Mathādhīsas, Bhattārakas).
   • Greed for wealth, material possessions, and comfort are condemned.
   • Attachment to family, village, or town even after renunciation is seen as a sign of a corrupted monastic life.
   • The text strongly opposes any physical contact between monks and nuns, and any interactions that could lead to spiritual decline.

4. The Role and Conduct of the Acarya (Spiritual Master):

   • The Acarya is presented as the foundation and leader of the monastic group.
   • Acaryas are expected to guide their disciples towards the right path, teach them spiritual values, and uphold canonical discipline.
   • Acaryas who are wilful, wicked, violent, comfort-loving, careless about preserving life, corrupt in virtues, neglect monastic routines, indulge in gossip, or fail to practice expiation are criticized and considered to be on the wrong path.
   • A virtuous Acarya should confess their flaws to another Acarya and atone for them.
   • Acaryas who provide monastic ordination but fail to guide disciples correctly, or who prioritize affection over propriety, are seen as enemies.
   • The text praises Acaryas who motivate their followers according to scripture, compare them to Tirthankaras, while those who deviate are called "cowards."
   • The Acarya's conduct is scrutinized as it sets the standard for the entire group.

5. The Conduct of Monks and Nuns:

   • Monks:
     • Must be knowledgeable, detached, and vigilant.
     • Should not indulge in trivial talk or lustful glances at women.
     • Their speech should align with canonical teachings, even if bitter.
     • They are forbidden from associating with nuns.
     • They must accept food and equipage according to canon and circumstance.
     • The text details the six permissible reasons for a monk to take food.
   • Nuns:
     • The text outlines numerous undesirable characteristics for nuns, including living alone, going out at night alone, talking amorously with householders, wearing colorful clothes, self-massage, quarreling, not obeying the head nun, practicing astrology, and engaging in forbidden activities.
     • Nuns who act contrary to canonical dictates, speak like householders, or are attached to worldly matters are criticized.
     • The ideal nun is one who is humble, respectful, engaged in study and meditation, and does not engage in quarrels or inappropriate behavior.
     • The text sternly warns against improper interactions between nuns and monks, and between nuns and householders.

6. Historical Context and Authorship:

   • The Gacchācāra Prakīrṇaka is noted as being of later origin than the Nandīsūtra and Pāksikasūtra but earlier than the Vidhimārgaprapā (circa 14th century AD).
   • Its period of composition is estimated to be between the 8th and 10th centuries AD, with a strong possibility of the late 10th or early 11th century, coinciding with the period when the term "Gaccha" became widely used for monastic groups and when laxity in monastic life was a significant issue.
   • The author remains unknown, but the text acknowledges drawing from sources like Mahāniśītha, Kalpasūtra, and Vyavahārasūtra, suggesting humility and a desire to compile existing knowledge rather than present original compositions.

7. Structure and Content:

   • The text comprises 137 verses.
   • It begins with a benediction and statement of purpose.
   • It then systematically discusses the harms of wayward monastic groups and the gains of righteous ones.
   • Detailed descriptions of the characteristics of Acaryas, monks, and nuns are provided.
   • The text concludes by emphasizing the importance of studying the Gacchācāra Prakīrṇaka for monks and nuns to adhere to canon-prescribed conduct.

Significance: The Gacchācāra Prakīrṇaka serves as a vital guide for monastic discipline within Jainism. It addresses the challenges of maintaining spiritual rigor in the face of evolving social and personal tendencies, providing clear guidelines for conduct and strongly advocating for adherence to the fundamental principles of Jain monasticism, particularly non-violence, chastity, and detachment. The English translation makes this important work accessible to a wider audience interested in Jain philosophy and practice.