Aparigraha Ek Vivechan - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Aparigraha Ek Vivechan" by Dr. Kamal Punjani:

The book "Aparigraha Ek Vivechan" (A Discourse on Non-Possessiveness) by Dr. Kamal Punjani delves into the concept of Aparigraha, a fundamental principle in Jainism.

Understanding the Term: The term Parigraha is derived from the Sanskrit root "graha" with the prefix "pari," signifying gathering or collecting from all sides. The addition of the negative prefix "a" forms Aparigraha, meaning non-possession or non-attachment. While Aparigraha is a technical term in Jain scriptures, it has also been recognized in other Dharmashastras like the Manusmriti and Yajnavalkya Smriti, alongside virtues like truthfulness and non-violence. Muni Shri Santbalji, in his Gujarati song, explicitly includes Aparigraha among the eleven Mahavratas (great vows).

Broader Meaning of Aparigraha: In Jain philosophy, Aparigraha extends beyond merely discarding physical objects. It encompasses detachment from sensual desires and attachments, referred to as vrittis. These include vices like lust (kama), anger (krodha), greed (lobha), pride (mada), and delusion (moha). True Aparigraha is only achieved when one is free from these internal inclinations, leading to a state of contentment and satisfaction.

Aparigraha's Supremacy over Ahimsa: The text highlights the profound importance of Aparigraha, with some Jain scholars considering it even more significant than Ahimsa (non-violence). Yuwacharya Mahapragya is quoted stating that while "Ahimsa Paramo Dharma" (Non-violence is the highest duty) is a widely recognized Jain tenet, he views Aparigraha as the primary truth, with Ahimsa arising as a consequence. He explains that violence often stems from the need to protect possessions. As one cultivates Aparigraha, their inclination towards violence diminishes. Therefore, the vow of Aparigraha is considered superior and more beneficial than the vow of Ahimsa. The text also mentions that the most difficult endeavor is the pursuit of self-realization and the eradication of the fear of birth and death.

Subtle Aspects of Aparigraha: The renowned Jain scholar and writer Yashpal Jain points out the subtle nuances of Aparigraha. He observes that sometimes a mendicant devoid of material possessions can be possessive in spirit due to pride in their asceticism, while a layperson with wealth can be non-possessive if they are free from attachment and pride in their possessions. Thus, possession is linked to attachment, and non-possession to detachment.

Possibility and Appropriateness of Aparigraha: The text then addresses the question of whether complete Aparigraha is possible and commendable, and for whom. The answer lies in understanding the life ideals and objectives of laypeople (Shravakas) and mendicants (Sadhus).

For Shravakas (Laypeople): Limited possession is appropriate. Laypeople have the responsibility of supporting their families and the mendicant community. Therefore, complete Aparigraha is not feasible for them. However, they can practice curtailing their needs, similar to the saint Kabir's plea: "O Lord, give me just enough to support my family, so that I remain neither hungry nor send away a mendicant hungry." This curtailment of desires and needs is equivalent to the vow of Aparigraha for a layperson.
For Sadhus (Mendicants): Complete Aparigraha is essential. While laypeople support the material needs of the monastic community, mendicants are responsible for the spiritual upliftment of the entire lay society. To achieve this, they must transcend dualities like pleasure and pain, attachment and aversion, honor and dishonor. This "self-development" necessitates the complete observance of the vow of Aparigraha. The Bhagavad Gita (2.56) describes such individuals as "Sthitaprajna" (one with steady wisdom), characterized by a mind undisturbed by distress, free from craving for pleasure, and devoid of attachment, fear, and anger.

Conclusion: The text concludes that Aparigraha is a great vow, even more significant than Ahimsa. However, its complete realization is possible only for those who have renounced the world and embraced detachment. In Jainism, Aparigraha is not merely the renunciation of material comforts but is synonymous with liberation from all desires. The ultimate goal is "to have no desire." The text emphasizes that only the best should be offered in the worship of the Jinas.