Bramhacharya Swarup Evam Sadhna

This document, titled "Brahmacharya Swarup Evam Sadhna" (The Nature and Practice of Celibacy) by Amarmuni, is a profound exploration of the Jain concept of Brahmacharya (celibacy or chastity). It emphasizes that Brahmacharya is not about creating new qualities but about revealing the inherent, pure nature of the soul, which is obscured by vices and desires.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and arguments presented in the text:

1. The True Nature of Brahmacharya and Spiritual Power:

• The author uses the analogy of cleaning a tarnished metal or gold covered in mud to explain that spiritual qualities like true knowledge, perception, and purity are not externally acquired but are inherent to the soul. They are merely covered by impurities (vices, desires).
• Brahmacharya, like other virtues such as truthfulness, non-stealing, and self-control, is an unveiling or manifestation (aavirbhav) of existing soul qualities, not a creation of new ones.
• The text asserts that those who practice the difficult path of Brahmacharya are revered by all divine beings (Devas, Danavas, Gandharvas, Yakshas, Rakshasas, Kinnaras).

2. The Inner Source of Brahmacharya:

• Brahmacharya is an internal state; it is not brought from the outside. The impurities (vikars) within suppress it.
• The Jain philosophy teaches that all inherent virtues are present within, and the practice of spirituality (sadhana) involves removing these obstructing impurities.

3. Removing Impurities to Reveal Virtues:

• The text details how removing specific impurities leads to the manifestation of corresponding virtues:
  • Removing violence (himsa) leads to non-violence (ahimsa).
  • Removing falsehood (asatya) leads to truth (satya).
  • Removing stealing (asteya) leads to non-stealing.
  • Removing sensual desires (vishaya-vasana) leads to self-control (sanyam).
  • Removing anger (krodha) leads to forgiveness (kshama).
  • Removing greed (lobha) leads to contentment (santosh).
  • Removing pride (abhimana) allows inherent humility (namrata) to shine.
  • Removing deceit (maya) allows inherent simplicity (saralta) to emerge.
• This process of impurity removal is likened to excavating a hidden treasure.

4. The Role of the "Guna Sthanas" (Stages of Spiritual Development):

• Jainism provides a detailed framework of "Guna Sthanas" which represent progressive stages of spiritual purification.
• These stages are not created but are attained by eradicating specific vices. For instance, removing delusion (mithyatva) leads to right faith (samyaktva), and removing non-restraint (avirati) leads to higher stages.

5. Brahmacharya and Sensory Restraint:

• The practice of Brahmacharya requires strict control over all senses, including the eyes, ears, and tongue, and mastery over the mind.
• Eyes: One should avoid looking at unpleasant or stimulating sights. If attracted by a captivating but impure image, one should close their eyes or look away. The analogy of a gardener picking flowers and avoiding thorns is used, emphasizing the need to selectively engage with the world's experiences.
• Ears: One should actively avoid listening to vulgar language, gossip, or any sound that can incite negative emotions or desires. It's important to create a "pure atmosphere" through listening. If one cannot change a negative environment, it's better to distance oneself.
• Mind: The mind is susceptible to the impressions of words and sights. Unpleasant words can take root and grow, eventually influencing one's actions.
• Tongue: The tongue is crucial for discernment and speech. However, it has become an instrument of excessive indulgence. The text stresses that food should be consumed for sustenance and body maintenance, not for mere sensory pleasure. Over-indulgence and fixation on taste (mirchi-masala, rajasa, tamasa food) compromises Brahmacharya. The analogy of the tongue being uncontrolled and leading to regret is highlighted.

6. The Importance of Simplicity and Moderation:

• The text criticizes the modern obsession with taste and elaborate cuisine, arguing that it stems from a lack of control over the tongue and a focus on sensory gratification rather than genuine need.
• It advocates for moderation in eating and avoiding food that agitates the mind and body.

7. The Interconnectedness of Vices:

• Every vice is presented as a form of violence, causing self-harm regardless of whether it harms others.
• The text uses the example of a matchstick, which burns itself before it can burn others, to illustrate how indulging in vices first harms the practitioner.

8. The Impact of Environment and Upbringing:

• The text laments the prevalence of vulgar songs and language, especially during auspicious occasions like weddings, which corrupt the atmosphere and negatively influence children.
• It questions how a society that bombards its youth with such negativity can cultivate virtuous individuals.

9. The True Path of Sadhana:

• The ultimate goal of Jain spiritual practice is to combat and eliminate vices.
• The author recounts a story of a devotee of Samarth Ramdas who struggled with their spouse over food preferences and the desire to become a renunciate. This story illustrates how attachment to sensory pleasures, particularly food, can hinder spiritual progress and create internal conflict.
• The story highlights that true renunciation (sadhana) comes from an internal shift, not just outward actions or words.

10. Brahmacharya as a Foundation for Spiritual Power:

• The text concludes by emphasizing that controlling the senses, particularly the eyes, ears, and tongue, is fundamental to achieving Brahmacharya.
• Such control leads to inner purity and spiritual power, enabling one to lead a life of well-being and ultimately achieve liberation.
• It quotes Jain scriptures that warn against the dangers of excessive indulgence, attachment to the body, and sensual desires, all of which undermine Brahmacharya.

In essence, Amarmuni's "Brahmacharya Swarup Evam Sadhna" is a comprehensive guide that defines Brahmacharya not as an ascetic denial of life, but as the rigorous practice of inner purification, sensory control, and the cultivation of inherent virtues, leading to spiritual empowerment and ultimate salvation.