Dashvaikalik Sutra - Book Summary

The Dashavaikalika Sutra: A Comprehensive Summary

The Dashavaikalika Sutra, attributed to Acharya Shyyambhava Suri and with a commentary by Acharya Haribhadra Suri, is a significant Jain text focusing on the conduct and ethics of ascetics, particularly monks. Translated and compiled by Muni Manik Muja and edited by Muni Jayananad Vijayji, this edition published by Shri Gururamchandra Prakashan Samiti aims to make this profound scripture accessible to a wider audience.

The text is structured into ten chapters (Adhyayanas), each delving into essential aspects of spiritual practice and conduct:

Key Themes and Chapters:

Drumapushpika (Chapter 1): This introductory chapter, also known as the "Tree Flower," praises the essence of Dharma, emphasizing non-violence (Ahimsa), self-control (Samyama), and asceticism (Tapas) as the core tenets. It highlights that even celestial beings bow to those whose minds are constantly devoted to Dharma. The chapter also touches upon the various forms of virtuous conduct and the importance of wisdom in understanding the true nature of reality.
Shramanapoorva (Chapter 2): This chapter focuses on the true nature of an ascetic (Shraman). It defines an ascetic as one who practices steadfastness, self-control, and detachment from worldly desires. It draws parallels with natural elements like the moon, the sun, and the earth to illustrate the ascetic's equanimity, forbearance, and unwavering dedication to their spiritual path. The chapter emphasizes the importance of maintaining equanimity in all circumstances and the consequences of succumbing to desires and passions.
Kshullakacharya (Chapter 3): This chapter, meaning "Minor Conduct," elaborates on the ethical conduct of ascetics, particularly focusing on avoiding minor transgressions. It details various prohibitions related to food, possessions, and interactions with the world, emphasizing the need for extreme care in every action to prevent harm to even the smallest beings. The concept of non-violence (Ahimsa) is deeply explored, urging ascetics to refrain from any act that could cause suffering to living beings, from the elemental ones (like earth, water, fire, air, vegetation) to the sentient ones (like insects, animals, and humans).
Shatjeevanika (Chapter 4): This chapter is dedicated to the meticulous understanding and protection of the six categories of living beings (Shatjeevanika) that pervade the universe. It explains the significance of protecting each of these categories – Prithvikaya (earth-bodied beings), Apukaya (water-bodied beings), Teukaya (fire-bodied beings), Vayukaya (air-bodied beings), Vanaspatikaya (vegetation-bodied beings), and Traskaya (sentient beings with two or more senses). The text stresses the Jain principle of Ahimsa in its most comprehensive form, urging ascetics to exercise utmost caution in their daily activities to avoid harming any form of life.
Pindeshana (Chapter 5): This chapter focuses on the meticulousness required in the practice of Pindeshana, which refers to the ethical and pure acceptance of alms (food and necessities). It details the strict rules and guidelines that monks must follow to ensure that their alms are obtained without causing any harm or violating any Jain principles. This includes careful observation of the food itself, the source of the food, the giver of the food, and the circumstances under which the alms are offered, all to maintain the purity of their spiritual practice and adhere to the principles of Ahimsa and Aparigraha (non-possession).
Mahacharya (Chapter 6): This chapter, meaning "Major Conduct," elaborates on the more advanced and stringent aspects of ascetic life. It delves into the disciplined lifestyle, the adherence to vows, and the constant vigilance required to overcome worldly attachments and temptations. It emphasizes the importance of controlling desires, practicing austerities, and maintaining an unwavering focus on spiritual liberation, even in the face of extreme hardships. The chapter also discusses the concept of vairagya (detachment) and the rigorous practices that lead to spiritual purification.
Vakya Shuddhi (Chapter 7): This chapter deals with the purity of speech (Vakya Shuddhi). It stresses the importance of truthful, harmless, and measured speech. It advises ascetics to avoid gossip, slander, harsh words, and speech that incites passions or causes harm to others. The chapter emphasizes that speech should be used wisely and for the benefit of all beings, contributing to spiritual progress and the dissemination of Dharma.
Achara Pranidhi (Chapter 8): This chapter focuses on Achara Pranidhi, which translates to "Conduct Discipline" or "Conscious Conduct." It highlights the importance of mindful awareness and self-discipline in all actions, thoughts, and speech. It guides ascetics to cultivate inner control over their senses and mental faculties, directing them towards spiritual goals. The chapter stresses the need to be vigilant against the subtle influences of passions and to maintain a disciplined approach towards all aspects of life, both internal and external.
Vinaya Samadhi (Chapter 9): This chapter deals with Vinaya Samadhi, which emphasizes the profound importance of humility, reverence, and discipline towards one's guru and the spiritual path. It explains that true discipline originates from within, cultivated through self-control and righteous conduct. The chapter highlights the significance of following the teachings of the guru with utmost devotion and understanding, leading to spiritual growth and ultimately, Samadhi (deep meditative absorption) and liberation.
Sabhikshu (Chapter 10): This final chapter, Sabhikshu, describes the ideal qualities of a true mendicant or monk (Bhikshu). It distinguishes between a mere outward appearance of asceticism and the genuine inner state of renunciation, detachment, and compassion. The chapter emphasizes that a true mendicant is characterized by their adherence to the Mahavratas (Great Vows), their cultivation of virtues like contentment, equanimity, and self-restraint, and their unwavering commitment to the path of liberation.

Overall Significance:

The Dashavaikalika Sutra, through its detailed exposition of ascetic conduct, provides practical guidance for spiritual aspirants. It underscores the Jain emphasis on meticulous ethical behavior, compassion for all living beings, and the relentless pursuit of self-purification and liberation. The text's wisdom lies in its practical application to the daily life of an ascetic, making the lofty ideals of Jainism accessible and actionable. The commentary provided by Acharya Haribhadra Suri further illuminates the profound meanings embedded within the sutra, making it an invaluable resource for understanding Jain philosophy and practice.