Agam 30A Gacchayaro Sattamam Painnayam Mulam PDF File

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Agam 30A Gacchayaro Sattamam Painnayam Mulam," based on the provided PDF pages:

Book Title: Gacchayaro (गच्छायारो) - Sattamam Painnayam (सत्तमं पइण्णयं) Author: Muni Diptaratnasagar (मुनि दीपरत्नसागर) Publisher: Deepratnasagar Series: Jain Aagam Online Series-30/1 Date: 2012

Overview:

This text, identified as the seventh Paivnnaaya (a category of Jain Agamic literature) within Agama 30, is titled "Gacchayaro" (गच्छायारो), which translates to "Conduct of the Monastery" or "Code of Conduct for a Monastic Community." It is a compilation and clarification of rules and principles essential for the proper functioning and spiritual progress of a Jain monastic order (Gachha). The work is a revision and compilation by Muni Diptaratnasagar.

Content Breakdown (Based on Page Structure and Verse Numbers):

The text is structured as a list of verses (Gaha - गाहा), each often containing specific teachings or pronouncements.

• Pages 1-2: Introduction and Table of Contents

  • The book begins with salutations to the pure path (Nirmal Darshan) and to the guru, Pu. Anand-Kshama-Lalit-Sushil-Sudharmasagar.
  • It announces the title "Gacchayaro - Sattamam Painnayam."
  • A table of contents (Granthanu-kkamo - गंथाणुक्कमो) outlines the key subjects covered:
    • Mangala (मंगलं-आई): Auspicious beginnings (Verses 3-6)
    • Gachha Samvasamananass Guna Suri-Swaroop-Varnanam (गच्छ संवसमाणस्सगुणा सूरि-सरूवं-वण्णणं): Qualities of living in a Gachha and the description of the Guru's form (Verses 7-40)
    • Guru Swaroop-Varnanam (गुरू सरूवं-वण्णणं): Description of the Guru's form (Verses 41-106)
    • Ajjya Swaroop-Varnanam (अज्जा सरूवं-वण्णणं): Description of the 'Ajjya' (female elder or nun leader) and their role (Verses 107-134)
    • Upasamhar (उपसंहार): Conclusion (Verses 134-137)

• Pages 3-10: Core Teachings and Guidelines

  The bulk of the text consists of verses that detail the characteristics of a proper Gachha, the qualities of a good Guru, and the conduct expected of monks and nuns. Key themes and points include:

  • Importance of a Proper Gachha: Living in a well-established Gachha that adheres to the right path is crucial for spiritual progress and avoiding the cycle of rebirths (Verses 2, 7). Diligence and effort are emphasized for spiritual advancement (Verses 4-6).
  • Qualities and Role of a Guru (Suri):
    • The Guru is the pillar, support, and guiding light of the Gachha (Verse 8).
    • A Guru going astray (Ummarga-pratishthita) is detrimental. Signs of such a Guru include being self-willed, immoral, engaging in worldly activities (arambha), causing harm, violating vows (moola-uttar-gunas), being deceitful, and perpetually creating conflict (Verses 10-12).
    • Even a competent Guru must ensure clear introspection and proper behavior (Verse 12).
    • The Guru should teach the right path, not lead disciples astray (Verses 13, 16, 27).
    • A Guru who teaches the correct path and sustains the community is praised (Verses 25-26).
    • A Guru who deviates or leads others astray is dangerous (Verses 28-31).
  • Qualities of a True Monk/Leader (Gani):
    • A true leader promotes the three pillars of Jainism: knowledge (gyana), perception (darshan), and conduct (charitra) (Verse 20).
    • They are dedicated to maintaining purity of conduct, possessions, and livelihood (Verse 21).
    • They are vigilant, balanced, and protect the community, young and old (Verse 22).
    • They are free from attachment to worldly matters like family, village, or kingdom (Verse 24).
    • They diligently follow the prescribed rules and understand the meaning of scriptures (Verse 14).
  • Discernment and Avoiding Wrong Associations:
    • The text warns against associating with those who are not learned in the scriptures (ageeyarth) (Verses 46-48). Their teachings can be poisonous, even if seemingly sweet (Verses 44-45, 47).
    • Association with corrupt individuals is like entering a blazing fire (Verse 49).
  • Characteristics of a Good Gachha:
    • A good Gachha is one where disciples are obedient and follow instructions, even harsh ones, without complaint (Verse 56).
    • Monks should be detached from possessions, body, and even basic sustenance (Verses 57-58).
    • Actions should be for the sake of religious observances, service, protection of life, and spiritual contemplation (Verse 59).
    • Respect for elders and seniors is paramount (Verse 60).
    • The Gachha should avoid excessive attachment to worldly pleasures and comforts (Verses 61-62).
  • Warnings Against Association with Women (Ajjyas/Samanis):
    • A significant portion of the text is dedicated to warning against improper association with women, particularly nuns or female followers.
    • Such associations are likened to fire and can lead to downfall, loss of reputation, and moral compromise (Verses 63-71).
    • Nuns who are self-willed, engage in worldly conversations, or are overly concerned with appearance are criticized (Verses 107-116, 118-122, 124-126).
    • The presence of women in monastic settings requires extreme caution and strict adherence to rules to maintain celibacy and purity (Verses 113-115, 117, 119-121, 124-126).
    • A Gachha where women are not properly governed or where they exert undue influence is condemned (Verses 95-96, 123, 129-131).
    • The text emphasizes that women, even if devout, can be a source of downfall if not managed with strict discipline and separation (Verses 130-133).
  • Emphasis on Purity and Observance:
    • The text repeatedly stresses the importance of purity in conduct, thought, and action.
    • Specific guidelines are given for food intake, hygiene, and dealings with lay people.
    • Avoiding harm to any living being is a recurring theme (Verse 75).
    • Strict adherence to rules regarding water, utensils, and other possessions is outlined (Verses 76-81, 88-92).
  • Conclusion (Verses 135-137):
    • The text states it has been compiled from the teachings of the "Mahanishitha" and "Vyavahara" (important Jain Agamic texts).
    • It is intended for the welfare of monks and nuns.
    • It is declared an excellent and beneficial text for those who study and follow it, wishing well-being for themselves.

Overall Significance:

"Gacchayaro" serves as a vital manual for maintaining the integrity, discipline, and spiritual focus of a Jain monastic community. It provides clear guidelines on leadership, conduct, and the avoidance of pitfalls that could lead to spiritual decline. The emphasis on the Guru's role and the detailed instructions on maintaining purity, particularly concerning interactions with the opposite gender, highlight the rigorous nature of Jain monasticism and its commitment to preserving the spiritual path. The text underscores that a true monastic community is characterized by adherence to scripture, self-control, and the pursuit of liberation.