Dashvaikalik Sutra - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Dashavaikalika Sutra text based on the provided pages:

Overall Presentation and Sponsorship:

The text is titled "Shri Dashavaikalika Sutram," presented with the commentary (Vritti) by Shri Tilakacharya.
It is published by Shri Rander Road Jain Sangh, Surat.
The publication features blessings and contributions from esteemed Acharyas of the Jain tradition, including P.P. A.A. Shri Vijay Chandrodayasurishwarji Maharaj, P.P. A.A. Shri Vijay Ashokchandrasurishwarji Maharaj, and P.P. A.A. Shri Vijay Somchandrasuriji Maharaj, who is also credited as the researcher.
Significant support is acknowledged from Seth Dosabhai Abhechand Pedhi, Bhavnagar, and the Shri 108 Jain Tirth Darshan Bhavan Trust.
The release date is mentioned as V.S. 2058, Maha Sud 6, coinciding with the birthday of P.P.A. Shri Vijay Chandrodayasurishwarji Maharaj.

Introduction and Purpose:

The text is described as a rare and valuable contribution to Jain Agam literature, specifically highlighting the previously unpublished commentary by Tilakacharya from the 13th century.
The publication is dedicated to the memory of revered Acharyas Shri Vijay Vigyanasurishwarji Maharaj and Shri Vijay Kastursurishwarji Maharaj.
The goal of this publication is to facilitate the study and understanding of ancient Jain texts, promoting knowledge and spiritual progress.
The Dashavaikalika Sutra is considered a fundamental text (Mool Sutra) in Jainism, expected to remain relevant until the end of the fifth era.

Key Aspects of the Text and Commentary:

The Dashavaikalika Sutra Itself:
- It is a significant Jain scripture, considered a "Mool Sutra."
- It is renowned for its practical teachings applicable to the daily lives of ascetics (sadhus and sadhvis).
- The text is said to have been revitalized by Shri Shathambhavasuri from ancient texts.
- The sutra is composed of ten chapters (Dash = ten, Vaikalika = pertaining to a specific time or context, implying timely or appropriate conduct).
The Commentary by Tilakacharya:
- Tilakacharya's commentary, composed in the 13th century (V.S. 1304), is described as unique and valuable.
- It is noted for its engaging style, incorporating poetic, narrative, and artistic elements, making the rigorous Agamic content accessible.
- The commentary is substantial, estimated to be around 7,000 verses.
- Tilakacharya himself humbly describes his intellectual capacity as "mandhī" (of limited intellect) but attributes his ability to undertake this work to the grace of his Guru.
- He also acknowledges the contributions of his disciples and colleagues in the research and writing process.
Content and Narrative Style:
- The commentary extensively elaborates on the sutra, often through compelling narratives and stories. Several key narratives are highlighted:
  - Kshullaka Muni Katha: Illustrates the dangers of attachment and the compromises that can arise, leading to downfall even for ascetics.
  - Chanakya and Subandhu: A story emphasizing the importance of wisdom, foresight, and ethical conduct, contrasting the astute Chanakya with the scheming Subandhu. It includes the story of Chandragupta Maurya and the explanation of King Bindusara's name.
  - Mantrishwar Abhay and Kathabhaarika: This story highlights the true meaning of renunciation, illustrating that renunciation is not just about giving up possessions but about detaching from worldly desires like fire, water, and women, and embracing the spiritual path.
  - Bhavdatta-Bhavadeva and Nagila: A narrative about renunciation, the influence of past karma, and the struggle between spiritual duty and worldly attachments, particularly illustrating the temptation faced by a monk.
  - Shri Neminath Swami Charitra: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to the life and teachings of Lord Neminath, detailing his various lifetimes, his renunciation, his marriage to Rajimati, his sermons, and his eventual liberation. This section is quite extensive and covers many philosophical and ethical points through Neminath's life story.
  - Nandisena Muni Katha: This story emphasizes the importance of adhering to vows and the consequences of failing to do so, as well as the dedication required in practicing asceticism and compassion.
  - The Glory of Eight-Fold Puja (Ashtaprakari Puja): The text describes the significance and benefits of performing the eight-fold worship.
  - The Story of the Agandhan Serpent: This narrative illustrates the importance of upholding one's principles and the consequences of succumbing to base desires, even at the cost of one's life.
  - The story of the Mudha-Dayi and Mudha-Jivi: This tale highlights the superficiality of outward religious practices versus true inner renunciation and the dangers of seeking worldly recognition.
  - The story of the Kshullaka (Minor Monk): This narrative illustrates the perils of attachment and the subtle ways in which it can derail spiritual practice, even for those who have taken vows.
  - The story of the Pindaiṣaṇā (Alms-Seeking): This section discusses the strict rules and ethical considerations involved in the alms-seeking practices of Jain monks, emphasizing purity and non-violence in obtaining sustenance. It includes various examples and cautionary tales related to food and its acquisition.
  - The story of the Six Life Forms (Shad Jiva Kayas): The text delves into the Jain understanding of the six types of living beings (earth-bodied, water-bodied, fire-bodied, air-bodied, plant-bodied, and mobile/sentient beings), emphasizing the ethical imperative of non-violence towards all life.
  - The importance of proper speech (Vak Shuddhi): This section stresses the ethical guidelines for speech, emphasizing truthfulness, kindness, and avoiding harmful or frivolous talk, particularly for monks.
  - The importance of conduct (Achar Pranidhi): This section discusses the proper conduct and discipline required for ascetics, including etiquette, adherence to rules, and mindful behavior in various situations.
  - The importance of training and discipline (Vinay Samadhi): This section highlights the crucial role of discipline, humility, and obedience towards one's spiritual preceptors in achieving spiritual progress and liberation.
  - The concept of purity in alms-seeking (Pindaiṣaṇā): This chapter details the meticulous rules surrounding the acquisition of food for monks, emphasizing purity, non-violence, and the avoidance of even the slightest transgression. Various examples and stories illustrate these principles.
  - The story of the Cave Monk: This narrative illustrates the practice of equanimity and detachment, even in the face of severe austerities and harsh conditions.
  - The story of the Wooden Gopi: This tale likely serves as an allegory or cautionary narrative related to some aspect of ascetic conduct or its misinterpretation.
Research Methodology:
- The preface outlines the research approach, noting the consultation of twelve manuscripts, ten of which are complete, and two are shorter commentaries.
- The manuscripts vary in age, with some dating back to the 14th and 13th centuries, and are preserved in various Jain libraries and collections.
- Efforts were made to note difficult words and variations in readings.

Overall Significance:

The Dashavaikalika Sutra, with Tilakacharya's commentary, serves as a comprehensive guide to Jain asceticism and ethical living. It emphasizes the practical application of Jain principles in daily conduct, the importance of spiritual discipline, and the path to liberation through non-violence, detachment, and devotion. The narratives woven into the commentary make the profound teachings relatable and memorable. The meticulous research and publication by the Jain Sangh aim to preserve and propagate this vital knowledge for the benefit of the Jain community and scholars.