Bhagvana Mahavira Na Das Upasako

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bhagavan Mahavira na Das Upasako" by Bechardas Doshi, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Bhagavan Mahavira na Das Upasako (The Ten Lay Disciples of Lord Mahavira) Original Text: Uvasagadasao (The Dasausakas) Translator: Bechardas Doshi Publisher: Gujarat Vidyapith, Ahmedabad First Edition: 1931 Second Edition: December 1948

Core Subject: This book is a Gujarati translation and commentary on the seventh Anga of the Jain Agamas, the Uvasagadasao (Upāsaka-dasāh), which details the lives and spiritual journeys of ten prominent lay disciples (Upasakas) of Lord Mahavira.

Key Themes and Content:

• Introduction and Context: The book begins with introductory remarks and endorsements from prominent figures, setting the stage for the importance of these lay disciples' lives. The editorial note highlights the significance of these stories for understanding Jain ethics and the practice of lay discipleship. It also mentions the initial publication challenges and the desire to present a more comprehensive and useful second edition.

• The Ten Upasakas: The central focus of the book is the biographical accounts of ten lay followers of Lord Mahavira. These individuals, from various backgrounds and professions, demonstrate how one can pursue spiritual progress while living a householder's life. The ten Upasakas are:

  1. Ananda
  2. Kamadeva
  3. Chullanapita (Gṛhapati Chullanapita)
  4. Suradeva
  5. Chullashataka
  6. Kundalika (Gṛhapati Kundalika)
  7. Sadalaputra
  8. Mahashataka
  9. Nandini-pita
  10. Salhi-pita

• Ananda's Story (Chapters 1-11): The first and most detailed account is that of Ananda.

  • Ananda is depicted as a wealthy and influential householder from Vanijyagrama, known for his sound advice and respected position in society.
  • He leads a prosperous life with significant wealth, vast cattle herds, and a devoted wife, Shivnanda.
  • Ananda hears Lord Mahavira's discourse and is deeply inspired. He accepts the twelve vows of a lay disciple (five Anuvratas and seven Shikshavratas).
  • The text details these vows, including abstaining from gross violence, falsehood, theft, unchastity, and excessive accumulation (of gold, cattle, land, vehicles, ships).
  • The seven Shikshavratas involve specific regulations on consumption, personal hygiene, ornamentation, diet, and responsible conduct.
  • The text also elaborates on the "Atichara" (minor transgressions or deviations) associated with each vow, emphasizing the meticulous nature of practicing Jain vows even for lay followers.
  • Ananda eventually retires from worldly affairs, entrusting his business to his son and taking up residence in a "Paushadhshala" (a dedicated place for religious observance).
  • He undergoes rigorous ascetic practices (Pratimas) for over five years, leading to immense spiritual purification.
  • During his severe austerities, Ananda attains "Avadhi Jnana" (clairvoyance).
  • A theological debate arises between Ananda and Lord Mahavira's chief disciple, Gautama, regarding the extent of Ananda's Avadhi Jnana, which is ultimately resolved in Ananda's favor, highlighting the potential for profound spiritual attainment even for householders.
  • Ananda, after fulfilling his vows and practices, performs "Marana-antika Samlekhana" (a vow of fasting unto death) and attains the heavens (Saurmadharma Kalpa), with a future destiny of liberation.

• Other Upasakas' Stories (Chapters 2-10): The subsequent chapters briefly narrate the stories of the other nine Upasakas: Kamadeva, Chullanapita, Suradeva, Chullashataka, Kundalika, Sadalaputra, Mahashataka, Nandini-pita, and Salhi-pita.

  • These stories generally follow a similar pattern: they are prosperous householders who encounter Lord Mahavira, are inspired by his teachings, accept the twelve vows of a lay disciple, practice them diligently, often retire to a spiritual retreat (Paushadhshala), and ultimately attain a favorable rebirth in the heavens, with a future path towards liberation.
  • The stories often highlight specific challenges faced by the Upasakas, such as temptations from gods trying to test their resolve (as seen with Kamadeva and Suradeva), dealing with family issues (Mahashataka's wife Revati), philosophical debates (Sadalaputra and his adherence to the Ajivika sect), and the practical application of vows.
  • The text emphasizes the importance of both adherence to vows and the spiritual discipline (like Pratikramana and Alochana) for maintaining purity.

• Translator's and Editor's Notes:

  • Translator's Note (Bechardas Doshi): Doshi explains his approach, drawing parallels between Jain, Vedic, and Buddhist traditions concerning lay discipleship and the practice of asceticism. He discusses the importance of understanding these scriptures in their historical and philosophical context and highlights the inclusiveness of Lord Mahavira's teachings. He notes the inclusion of original Prakrit words in footnotes for scholarly comparison and the incorporation of discourses from other Jain Sutras to make the narratives more complete and engaging.
  • Editorial Note: This section elaborates on the publication history, the significance of the "Shrī Pūjabhai Jain Granthamala" series, and the revised approach for the second edition, which includes more detailed explanations and critical notes. It also mentions the inclusion of information about the Ajivika sect and its founder, Gosala, in an appendix.
  • Kakasaheb Kalelkar's Foreword ("Shatpurushadharma"): This essay provides a profound introduction to the book, framing the lives of the Upasakas within the broader context of righteous conduct and spiritual aspiration. Kalelkar emphasizes how these householders, despite their wealth and worldly responsibilities, pursued spiritual growth through moderation, detachment, and adherence to ethical principles. He highlights their systematic approach to spiritual progress and Lord Mahavira's satisfaction with their balanced practice.

• Appendices and Notes: The book includes detailed footnotes ("Tippan") and an appendix on the Ajivika sect, providing historical and linguistic context, explaining technical terms, and offering comparative insights into Jain philosophy and practice.

Overall Significance:

• Lay Discipleship in Jainism: The book serves as a foundational text for understanding the role and potential of lay followers (Shrāvikas and Shravakas) in Jainism. It demonstrates that spiritual liberation is attainable not only through monastic renunciation but also through dedicated practice in worldly life.
• Ethical and Spiritual Guidance: The detailed accounts of vows, their associated transgressions, and the exemplary conduct of the Upasakas offer practical guidance on living a righteous and spiritually progressive life within a householder's framework.
• Historical and Cultural Insight: The text provides glimpses into the social and economic conditions of ancient India, as well as the philosophical landscape of the time, including the interactions between different religious traditions like Jainism, Buddhism, and the Ajivika sect.
• Lord Mahavira's Teachings: The narratives underscore Lord Mahavira's wisdom, compassion, and his ability to tailor spiritual guidance to the diverse needs and capacities of his followers. His teachings emphasize balance, moderation, and the gradual ascent towards spiritual perfection.

In essence, "Bhagavan Mahavira na Das Upasako" is a seminal work that illustrates the Jain path for householders, showcasing how dedication to ethical principles, spiritual vows, and devotion to the Tirthankara can lead to profound spiritual merit and favorable destinations, ultimately paving the way for liberation.