Dashvaikalik Sutra - Book Summary

Summary of the Dashvaikalik Sutra

The Dashvaikalik Sutra, authored by Vijaykesharsuri and published by Muktichandra Shraman Aradhana Trust, is a fundamental Jain text that focuses on the practical conduct and ethical guidelines for ascetics (monks and nuns). The text is deeply rooted in Jain philosophy and aims to provide clear instructions for a disciplined and virtuous spiritual life.

The book is presented as a translation with explanations of individual words and the overall meaning, making it accessible to a wider audience. The author, Acharya Shrimad Vijay Keshar Surishwarji, was inspired by the need for such a guide for contemporary ascetics. The publication is dedicated to the memory of Sadhvi Gyanashriji and her disciple Vinayashriji, highlighting the lineage and transmission of spiritual knowledge.

Core Teachings and Structure:

The Dashvaikalik Sutra is structured into ten chapters (adhyayana), each delving into specific aspects of ascetic life:

Kumhupushpika Adhyayan: This chapter, the first, focuses on the fundamental principles of asceticism, emphasizing non-violence (ahimsa), self-control (sanyam), and austerity (tapas) as the cornerstones of a virtuous life. It uses the analogy of a bee collecting nectar from flowers without harming them to illustrate how monks should ethically gather alms.
Shramanya Purvika Adhyayan: This chapter discusses the essence of asceticism and the importance of renunciation and detachment. It highlights the dangers of worldly temptations and the need for constant vigilance in maintaining one's vows. The dialogue between Rajumati and Rathnemi is used to illustrate the challenges and the path to upholding spiritual discipline.
Kshullaka Achara Adhyayan: This chapter lays the foundation for ascetic conduct, detailing the basic principles of monastic life. It stresses the importance of controlling the mind, particularly during the act of taking food, and cultivating patience and tolerance.
Shatjivanika Adhyayan: This chapter focuses on compassion and the protection of all living beings. It explains the concept of the six categories of life (Shatjivanika – Earth, Water, Fire, Air, Plants, and mobile beings) and the various ways in which harm can be inflicted. It guides the ascetic on how to live without causing violence to any of these categories, thus leading to eternal liberation.
Pinda-eshana Adhyayan: This chapter is dedicated to the ethical and meticulous process of collecting alms (pinda-eshana). It details the strict rules regarding the type of food, the manner of receiving it, the number of morsels, and the consequences of greed and improper conduct. It emphasizes purity and non-violence in every aspect of obtaining sustenance.
Maha Achara Adhyayan: This chapter elaborates on the great vows and the cultivation of virtues for spiritual growth. It defines the 18 stages of self-control and stresses the unwavering commitment required to uphold them. It also warns against complacency even for the knowledgeable, emphasizing that strict adherence to pure conduct is essential for spiritual sustenance.
Vachana Shuddhi Adhyayan: This chapter focuses on the purity of speech (vachana shuddhi). It uses stories like that of Bandhak Muni and Draupadi to illustrate the extreme importance of controlling one's speech. It warns against the dangers of ill-considered words and the approval of negative actions, emphasizing the need for mindfulness in all verbal expressions.
Achara Prasiddhi Adhyayan: This chapter details the practical aspects of maintaining purity in conduct (achara prasiddhi). It covers various aspects like avoiding specific actions that might lead to impurity, managing internal urges, and seeking the guidance of scriptures and gurus for correct conduct.
Vinaya Samadhi Adhyayan: This chapter highlights the crucial role of humility and spiritual tranquility (vinaya samadhi) in ascetic life. It explains that true spiritual progress is achieved through respect for the teachings, gurus, and the overall monastic community. It emphasizes the importance of cultivating inner peace and adhering to the path laid out by the Tirthankaras.
Tapasya and Conduct: This chapter likely deals with the various forms of austerity (tapasya) and their role in spiritual purification, alongside the conduct of ascetics in different situations and the cultivation of virtues like patience and equanimity.

Key Themes:

Ahimsa (Non-violence): The Sutra consistently emphasizes the paramount importance of non-violence in thought, word, and deed, extending it to all forms of life.
Self-Control and Discipline: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to rigorous self-control over senses, mind, and actions, ensuring strict adherence to monastic vows.
Purity and Ethics: The Sutra meticulously outlines ethical guidelines for every aspect of an ascetic's life, from alms-gathering to speech and conduct.
Renunciation and Detachment: It stresses the need to detach oneself from worldly pleasures, possessions, and affections to achieve spiritual liberation.
Spiritual Conduct and Conduct: The text serves as a comprehensive guide for ascetics, covering their daily routines, interactions, and the internal cultivation of virtues necessary for spiritual progress.
The Role of the Guru: The importance of a guru's guidance and the student's respectful adherence to their teachings are implicitly and explicitly highlighted.

Overall Significance:

The Dashvaikalik Sutra is considered one of the most important and practical texts for Jain ascetics. Its detailed and actionable guidance provides a roadmap for a life dedicated to spiritual pursuit, emphasizing that true liberation is achieved through consistent practice, self-discipline, and unwavering ethical conduct. The translation and commentary by Acharya Vijay Keshar Surishwarji aim to make these profound teachings accessible and relevant for the modern aspirant.