Agam 42 Mool 03 Dashvaikalik Sutra - Book Summary

This document is a Bengali translation of the Jain text "Dashvaikalik Sutra" (Agam 42 Mool 03), translated into Bengali poetry by Ramnibhushan Bhattacharya. The book was published by Parshwanath Jain Library, Jaipur.

The preface and introductory sections highlight the following points:

Purpose of the Translation: The translation into Bengali poetry is intended to make the profound teachings of Jainism accessible to a wider audience, especially those who may not be familiar with the original Prakrit or its scholarly translations.
Jainism's Antiquity: The text emphasizes the ancient origins of Jainism, placing it before the advent of Gautam Buddha and the existence of Lord Mahavir, who was contemporary with Buddha. It traces the spiritual lineage through the 23 Tirthankaras preceding Mahavir.
Divisions within Jainism: The text briefly mentions the two main divisions of Jains: Shvetambara and Digambara, with further subdivisions within the Shvetambara sect (Murtipujak, Sthanakavasi, and Terapanthi).
Path to Liberation: The core philosophy of Jainism, as presented in the text, is the liberation of the soul from karmic bondage through purification. This is achieved through the combination of Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga, and Bhakti Yoga.
- Jnana Marga: Emphasizes "Jnana, Darshan, and Charitra" (Knowledge, Perception, and Conduct) as the sole path to liberation.
- Bhakti Yoga: Is represented by the veneration of Jain Tirthankaras.
- Karma Yoga: Is exemplified by the asceticism, penance, and adherence to vows by monks and the practices of lay followers.
The Role of Karma: The text explains that bondage occurs due to the accumulation of auspicious and inauspicious karma. Just as a burnt seed cannot sprout, a soul whose karmic seeds are burnt (destroyed) will not be reborn. Liberation is achieved by eradicating the impurities of the soul through non-violence, self-control, and penance.
Comparison with Bhagavad Gita: The preface draws parallels between Jain teachings and the Bhagavad Gita, particularly quoting verses that speak of detachment from the fruits of actions, contentment in the self, and the importance of the self-realized state where actions no longer bind. The concept of performing actions without attachment, like an unaffected body, is highlighted.
The Nature of Jinaganas: The text describes Jinaganas (liberated beings) as devoid of attachment and aversion (Raga and Dwesha), having conquered the "great wrestler" of delusion (Mohamallaha), possessing perfect knowledge and perception (Kevala-jnana-darshana), and being worshipped by deities and lords of deities.
Spiritual vs. Worldly Actions: Jain scriptures distinguish between actions that lead to rebirth and suffering (karma) and spiritual actions like non-violence, self-control, and penance, which lead to spiritual progress and are considered dharma. The destruction of the former is the path to liberation, while the latter is the path to spiritual advancement.
The Importance of Both Knowledge and Action: The text, quoting from the Yoga Vashistha Ramayana, states that liberation is achieved through both knowledge and action, just as a bird flies with two wings. The absence of either hinders the path to liberation.
Interpretation of Scriptures: The importance of understanding the true intent of the scriptures beyond the literal meaning of words is stressed. The author emphasizes that merely translating verses without grasping the underlying message can lead to misinterpretations and the loss of dharma.
The Significance of Dashvaikalik Sutra:
- It is considered a fundamental text (Mool Sutra) within Jainism.
- It contains ten studies (adhyavala) and two concluding sections (chulika), detailing various aspects of ascetic conduct and spiritual discipline.
- The author, Acharya Shyayambhav Bhatt, is credited with its composition.
- The name "Dashvaikalik" is attributed to its composition in the afternoon (vikal) over ten days, though some traditions link it to its author's son, Manak.
- The sutra covers crucial topics such as non-violence, self-control, penance, detachment from desires, ethical conduct, the nature of life, vows, alms-seeking, speech, food habits, guru service, humility, and the renunciation of forbidden actions.
The Translator's Journey: The author details the process of translating the text into Bengali poetry, including seeking guidance and corrections from esteemed Jain scholars like Acharya Tulsiramji and Acharya Dulichandji, as well as scholars like Mohanalalji and others who provided support.
Aim of the Work: The translator hopes that by reading this work, readers will be inspired towards the practice of non-violence and self-control, making his efforts worthwhile.

The subsequent sections provide a chapter-by-chapter (Adhyayana) summary of the Dashvaikalik Sutra's content, as rendered in Bengali poetry. Each chapter appears to delve into specific ethical principles and practices for Jain ascetics:

Chapter 1 (Dharma): Focuses on the essence of dharma as non-violence (Ahimsa), self-control (Sanyam), and penance (Tap). It elaborates on the principle of abstaining from violence and the mindful collection of alms, drawing parallels with the bee's behavior.
Chapter 2 (Vasanas): Deals with the control of desires (Vasanas) and the challenges faced by ascetics. It discusses the allure of material possessions, sensual pleasures, and the importance of maintaining equanimity. The story of Rathnemi and Rajimati is introduced as an example of renunciation.
Chapter 3 (Dosha): Highlights various faults and transgressions (Dosha) that ascetics must avoid, including dietary restrictions, improper conduct, and actions that violate spiritual purity. It emphasizes the need for vigilance and adherence to rules.
Chapter 4 (Jiva and Mahavrata): Explains the classification of living beings (Jiva) into six categories (Pṛthvi-kaya, Ap-kaya, Tejas-kaya, Vayu-kaya, Vanaspati-kaya, and Tras-kaya) and the five great vows (Pancha Mahavrata) and the sixth vow related to night-eating. It details the prohibitions against harming any living being.
Chapter 5 (Pindaishana): Focuses on the ethics of alms-seeking (Pindaishana), covering rules related to where to seek alms, how to approach the donor, what food to accept, and what to reject. It emphasizes purity, discretion, and avoiding attachment.
Chapter 6 (Achar): Discusses the conduct and behavior of ascetics (Achar), including rules related to their possessions, movement, interactions, and avoidance of worldly entanglements. It details specific prohibitions and practices to maintain spiritual discipline.
Chapter 7 (Vachana Shuddhi): Deals with the purity of speech (Vachana Shuddhi), outlining guidelines for appropriate and inappropriate language. It emphasizes truthful, harmless, and measured speech, while condemning deceitful, offensive, or frivolous talk.
Chapter 8 (Achar Vishuddhi): Further elaborates on conduct, focusing on the purification of actions and adherence to vows. It covers detailed rules for ascetics, including hygiene, handling of objects, and maintaining detachment.
Chapter 9 (Vinaya and Samadhi): Explores the importance of humility (Vinaya) and mental composure (Samadhi) in the path to liberation. It highlights the role of the Guru in guiding disciples and the significance of respecting elders and learned individuals.
Chapter 10 (Bhavu Bhikshu): Describes the ideal qualities of a "Bhavu Bhikshu" (a truly virtuous ascetic) who lives a life of detachment, non-violence, and adherence to spiritual principles.
First Chulika (Rativakya): Acts as a concluding section, reinforcing the importance of vigilance against spiritual lapses and the consequences of deviating from the path of asceticism. It emphasizes the strength gained through discipline and the continuous effort required for spiritual progress.
Second Chulika (Vivikta Charya): Further elaborates on the practice of living a secluded and pure life, emphasizing detachment from worldly desires and the importance of mindful conduct.
Appendix (Rathnemi and Rajimati's Story): Narrates a significant story from Jain tradition about Prince Rathnemi and Princess Rajimati, illustrating the principles of renunciation and spiritual devotion.

Overall, the document provides a comprehensive overview of the ethical and disciplinary aspects of Jain monastic life, as presented in the Dashvaikalik Sutra, making these teachings accessible through Bengali poetry.