Agam Deep 30A Gacchachara Gujarati Anuvaad

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Agam Deep 30A Gacchachara Gujarati Anuvaad," focusing on the content related to "Gacchachara" (conduct within the monastic community) as presented in the translated Gujarati text:

Book Title: Agam Deep 30A Gacchachara Gujarati Anuvaad Author: Muni Deepratna Sagar (Gujarati translation) Publisher: Agam Shrut Prakashan

This work is a Gujarati translation and commentary (known as "Gurjar Chhaya") of a Jain text concerning the conduct and principles of the monastic community (Gachha). The core of the provided text focuses on defining the characteristics of a proper Gachha, the qualities of its members (monks and nuns), and the responsibilities of the spiritual leader (Acharya).

Key Themes and Content:

I. The Importance and Nature of a Gachha:

• Foundation of Faith: A Gachha is presented as a vital structure for spiritual progress, where members strive to uphold the teachings of the Jina.
• Distinguishing Good from Bad Gachhas: The text emphasizes the need to discern between a righteous Gachha (Sannmargapratishthit) and a misguided one (Unmargagami).
• Impact of Association: It highlights that associating with a bad Gachha or its members can lead to spiritual downfall, even for virtuous individuals. Conversely, association with a good Gachha fosters spiritual growth.
• Life-Long Commitment: Individuals are encouraged to commit to a righteous Gachha for their entire life.

II. The Role and Qualities of an Acharya (Spiritual Leader):

• Pillars of the Gachha: The Acharya is described as the foundation, support, guiding light, and savior of the Gachha, akin to a pillar for a temple, a lifeline in times of crisis, and a guide to beneficial and detrimental paths.
• Marks of a True Acharya:
  • Adherence to Jina's teachings and prescribed conduct.
  • Living according to the principles of the scriptures (Agamas).
  • Wisdom in managing the community's resources and affairs (clothing, living spaces, disciples).
  • Continuous contemplation of the scripture's meaning.
  • Proper training and guidance of disciples.
  • Teaching and upholding "Samachari" (correct conduct).
  • Humility and affection towards disciples (e.g., kissing them like a cow to a calf), but with a focus on their spiritual development.
  • Not indulging in practices contrary to the Agamas.
  • Being a source of inspiration and guidance for the community.
  • Recognizing and acknowledging the spiritual achievements of others.
• Marks of a False or Erring Acharya:
  • Acting according to personal whims.
  • Introducing corrupt practices.
  • Engaging in violence.
  • Being corrupted in root and secondary virtues.
  • Opposing established norms.
  • Neglecting confession (Alochna) to seniors.
  • Being engrossed in worldly discussions.
  • Lacking diligence and enthusiasm in spiritual practices.
  • Failing to inspire disciples to pursue higher spiritual goals.
  • Abandoning the principles of the Jina's teachings.
  • Prioritizing personal comfort over spiritual discipline.
  • Showing attachment to worldly possessions and family after renunciation.
  • Neglecting the training of disciples or failing to impart the correct spiritual path.

III. Qualities and Conduct of Monks (Munis):

• Virtuous Living: Monks are expected to possess self-control, discipline, and adherence to the vows and conduct prescribed by the scriptures.
• Renunciation and Detachment: True renunciation involves detachment from worldly possessions, including one's own body.
• Dietary Discipline: Monks should be skilled in accepting pure food, free from the forty-two faults of Esana, and should accept food not for taste or physical appearance but for the sustenance of their spiritual life and practices.
• Proper Conduct in the Community:
  • Respecting elders and those with greater spiritual stature.
  • Not disrespecting those who are senior in age or virtue.
  • Maintaining decorum and adhering to the teachings.
  • Practicing patience and forbearance even when subjected to harsh words or actions.
  • Avoiding excessive attachment to possessions.
  • Fasting for sustenance of the body to uphold their spiritual path.
  • Showing compassion and providing assistance to those in need.
• Avoiding Pitfalls:
  • Monks are warned against engaging in frivolous conversations, anger, attachment, or any behavior that leads to spiritual decay.
  • The text strongly condemns the association with or indulgence in any form of lustful thoughts or actions towards women.

IV. Qualities and Conduct of Nuns (Sadhvis):

• Strict Adherence to Rules: The text places a strong emphasis on the strict discipline and conduct of nuns to maintain purity of the monastic order.
• Avoiding Prohibited Conduct: Numerous specific prohibitions are outlined for nuns, including:
  • Engaging in gossip or worldly conversations with householders.
  • Wearing colorful or elaborate clothing.
  • Engaging in domestic chores for householders (sewing, cooking, oiling the body).
  • Adopting luxurious lifestyles (comfortable beds, using pillows).
  • Interacting casually or flirtatiously with men, regardless of age.
  • Speaking in a way that attracts or entices men.
  • Engaging in disputes or harsh language.
  • Neglecting prescribed penances and seeking exemptions.
  • Failing to show hospitality to visiting nuns.
  • Wearing impure or inappropriate ornaments or clothing.
  • Practicing sensual arts or mimicking worldly behavior.
  • Interacting with or living near places of ill repute (like those of courtesans).
  • Engaging in unnecessary bathing or adornment.
• Respect and Hierarchy: Nuns are expected to respect the hierarchy within the community, with younger nuns respecting and obeying senior nuns.
• Spiritual Focus: Nuns should dedicate themselves to scriptural study and meditation, avoiding worldly distractions and conversations.
• Consequences of Misconduct: The text unequivocally states that nuns who deviate from these principles are not true nuns and are enemies of the monastic order.

V. Specific Guidelines for Gachhas:

• Abstinence from Prohibited Items: The Gachha should be free from the use of gold, silver, money, or other materialistic possessions not sanctioned by the scriptures.
• Purity of Water and Food: The Gachha should uphold strict practices regarding the consumption of water and food, ensuring purity and adherence to rules, especially during times of hardship or illness.
• Controlled Interactions: The text details strict rules regarding interactions between monks and nuns, emphasizing separation and avoidance of any situation that could compromise celibacy or lead to scandal.
• Disciplinary Measures: Erring members, regardless of their spiritual attainments or lineage, are to be disciplined or expelled from the Gachha according to the scriptural guidelines.
• Upholding the Dharma: A true Gachha is one that consistently upholds the principles of Dharma (righteous conduct), knowledge, and faith.

In essence, the "Agam Deep 30A Gacchachara Gujarati Anuvaad" serves as a detailed guide for the Jain monastic community, elaborating on the essential qualities of leadership, the conduct expected of monks and nuns, and the stringent rules that govern their communal living to ensure spiritual purity and progress towards liberation. It emphasizes discernment, discipline, and unwavering adherence to the teachings of the Jinas.