Agam 42 Mool 03 Dashvaikalik Sutra

This document is a Hindi translation of the Jain text Dashvaikalik Sutra, one of the fundamental texts in Jain Agamic literature. The translation is attributed to Pandit Munishri Saubhagyamalji Maharaj, a disciple of Pandit Munishri Nanchandji Maharaj. It was published by the Sthanakvasi Jain Conference in 1936 (Veer Samvat 2463).

The document contains the following sections:

• Fair Use Declaration: A statement from "The Free Indological Collection" (TFIC) explaining that the book is provided for educational and research purposes under Fair Use guidelines, believing it to be in the public domain.
• Title Page: "Shri Dashvaikalik Sutra" with Hindi translation, author, and publisher details.
• Dedication: A heartfelt dedication by the translator to his revered guru.
• Introduction (Aamukh): Explains that the publication of this Hindi translation is supported by the Shri Hansraj Jinagam Vidya Pracharak Fund Committee, which was established with a donation for the propagation of religious knowledge and the revival of Agamas.
• Preface (Upo-dghat): Discusses the importance of the Dashvaikalik Sutra, comparing it to the Uttaradhyayan Sutra. While Uttaradhyayan Sutra is rich in narratives and dialogues, Dashvaikalik Sutra is valued for its concise exposition of essential principles and rules for ascetics. It highlights the relevance of the sutra in addressing contemporary moral and ethical challenges, emphasizing the importance of disciplined living. It also outlines the translation's methodology, aiming for simplicity and clarity, with added notes where necessary to explain the underlying intent of the scriptures.
• Important Points to Know Before Reading:
  • Anekantavada of Jainism: Explains that Jain philosophy is based on "Anekantavada" (many-sidedness), meaning statements are often relative.
  • Utsarga and Apavada: Discusses the concepts of general rules (Utsarga) and exceptions (Apavada) in Jainism, explaining that exceptions are made to uphold the spirit of the law and the welfare of the practitioner in specific circumstances.
  • Stages of Development in Jainism: Differentiates between householders (Grihastha) and ascetics (Shraman) in their spiritual paths and vows (Anuvrata for householders, Mahavrata for ascetics).
  • Focus on Ascetic Life: Notes that the sutra primarily focuses on the life of an ascetic but is also relevant for householders due to the interconnectedness of their lives with the ascetic path.
  • Explaining Utsarga and Apavada: Provides examples of exceptions in ascetic life, such as the necessity of movement despite potential harm to subtle beings, or the allowance for certain actions during unavoidable situations. It emphasizes the principle of "Upyog" (conscious attention) as crucial in mitigating sin.
• Acknowledgments (Aabhaar): The translator expresses gratitude to various scholars and teachers whose works were consulted and acknowledges the significant role of his guru's guidance.
• Introduction (Prastaavna):
  • Importance of Dashvaikalik Sutra: Identifies Dashvaikalik Sutra as a "Mool Sutra" (root scripture) within the Jain Agamas.
  • Categorization of Agamas: Explains the classification of Jain Agamas into Anga, Upanga, Mool, and Chhed.
  • Meaning of "Mool Sutra": Discusses various interpretations of why these texts are called "Mool Sutras," including the idea that they contain the essence of Jain teachings or are foundational for new ascetics.
  • Authorship: Explores the traditional attribution of authorship to Shyyambhavacharya, his connection to his disciple Manaka, and the evidence suggesting that parts of the sutra are compiled from other Agamas.
  • Language and Antiquity: Comments on the ancient Prakrit language used in the sutra, comparing it to other early Agamas.
  • Etymology of "Dashvaikalik": Explains the name derives from the ten chapters (adhyan) containing teachings for different times (kaal).
  • Contents of the Sutra: Briefly describes the themes covered in each of the ten chapters and the two concluding "Chulikas" (appendices).
  • Uniqueness of Dashvaikalik: Highlights its direct guidance towards Moksha and its central theme of "Vatthu sahāvo dhammo" (the nature of things is Dharma), emphasizing the importance of "Vinaya" (discipline/conduct) as the root of Dharma.
  • Commentaries: Lists various historical commentaries on the Dashvaikalik Sutra.
  • Translations and Editions: Mentions early translations and later scholarly editions of the text.
• Table of Contents (Anukramanika): A detailed list of the chapters (Uddeshak) and their themes, providing a comprehensive overview of the sutra's content. This includes:
  1. Druma Pushpika (Tree Flowers): On the true meaning of Dharma, comparing the ascetic's life to a bee and discussing non-violence.
  2. Shramanyapurvak (Indicative of Asceticism): On controlling desires and the path to true asceticism, including the story of Ratnemi and Rajimati.
  3. Kshullakachar (Minor Conduct): Discusses 52 prohibitive rules for ascetics to protect their disciplined life.
  4. Shat Jivanika (Six Types of Life): Details the six categories of living beings (earth, water, fire, air, plants, mobile) and the principles of non-violence towards them, presented in both prose and verse. It outlines the path from knowledge to liberation.
  5. Pindeshana (Quest for Alms): In two parts, this chapter details the proper conduct for begging, including what is acceptable and unacceptable, how to behave, and the etiquette of receiving alms.
  6. Dharmarthakamadhyayan (Study of Dharma, Artha, Kama): Discusses the path to Moksha, the importance of asceticism, and rules related to vows, non-violence, truth, celibacy, and non-possession.
  7. Suvakya Shuddhi (Purity of Speech): Emphasizes the importance of correct and ethical speech, advising on the type of language to use and avoid.
  8. Achar Pranidhi (Repository of Conduct): Discusses the practice of virtue, overcoming difficulties, controlling anger, and maintaining chastity.
  9. Vinay Samadhi (Discipline and Tranquility): In four parts, this chapter elaborates on the significance of discipline, respect for gurus, self-control, and the path to spiritual peace through various forms of discipline.
  10. Bhikshu Naam (The Ideal Ascetic): Describes the characteristics and conduct of an ideal ascetic.
  11. Rati Vakya Chulika (Appendix on Encouraging Speech): Discusses the importance of maintaining enthusiasm for the ascetic path and provides guidance for overcoming temptations and returning to the right path.
  12. Vivikta Charya (Solitary Conduct): Focuses on the principles of solitary conduct, detachment from worldly desires, and the pursuit of spiritual liberation.

In essence, the document provides a comprehensive Hindi translation of the Dashvaikalik Sutra, explaining its scriptural context, philosophical underpinnings, and practical guidelines for ascetics. It emphasizes the Jain principles of non-violence, self-control, detachment, and the pursuit of spiritual liberation.