Dashvaikalik Vachna

This Jain text, "Dashvaikalik Vachna" by Abhaysagar and Matichandrasagar, published by Agamoddharak Pratishthan, is a detailed commentary and explanation of the Dashvaikalika Sutra. The Sutra itself, compiled by the great Acharya Shyambhav Suri, is considered a foundational text in Jainism, offering essential teachings for monks and nuns on the conduct of their spiritual life.

The book serves as a guide to understanding the profound principles and practices outlined in the Dashvaikalika Sutra. It elaborates on various aspects of a monk's daily life and spiritual journey, emphasizing the importance of:

1. Daily Conduct and Discipline:

• Proper posture, movement, speech, and observation.
• Dietary practices, including acquiring and consuming food.
• Interactions and etiquette with fellow ascetics and the laity.
• Maintaining equanimity and detachment towards worldly possessions, physical attractions, and wealth.

2. Spiritual Practice and Philosophy:

• The text delves into the contemplation of concepts like the Samavasarana (the divine assembly of Tirthankaras).
• It highlights the importance of spiritual focus, chanting the 'Namo Arihantanam' mantra, and deep meditation on the divine.
• The commentary stresses the profound significance of the six essential virtues and the contemplation of the six types of living beings (Shajivanikaya), emphasizing non-violence (Ahimsa) in thought, word, and deed.
• The core of Jain practice, as explained, is the cessation of violence and the liberation of the soul from its own destruction.

3. The Role and Teachings of Monks:

• The book illustrates the influence of monks on lay followers, their adherence to vows, and their daily routines like 'vihar' (wandering) and 'gochari' (alms gathering).
• It portrays the monk's detachment and inner focus, often depicted in meditation or engrossed in studying the Agamas.

4. Key Jain Principles:

• The commentary elaborates on the concept of 'Samabhava' (equanimity) in all aspects of life, including the contemplation of living beings.
• It stresses the value of every moment of life and the proper utilization of time, highlighting the potential for both great fortune and misfortune based on actions.
• The text underscores the ultimate goal of human life as becoming a 'saint' or a 'Jain Sadhu' – one who strives for self-liberation by ceasing violence towards oneself and others.

5. The Significance of the Dashvaikalika Sutra:

• The book emphasizes that the Dashvaikalika Sutra provides the fundamental education for a Jain monk, guiding them on every aspect of their conduct.
• It details how to behave, walk, listen, observe, speak, eat, and interact with the world, ensuring every action is a form of spiritual practice leading towards liberation.

6. The Role of the Gurus:

• The text pays tribute to the esteemed Gurus, Shri Abhayasagarji Maharaj, who expounded the teachings of the Dashvaikalika Sutra, and Shri Matichandrasagarji Maharaj, who compiled and edited it. Their spiritual prowess and mastery in delivering these lectures are highly praised.

Overall, "Dashvaikalik Vachna" is presented as a spiritual treasure, essential for the purification of character and the advancement of spiritual practice. It guides the reader through the intricate details of monastic life and the philosophical underpinnings of Jainism, aiming to illuminate the path towards spiritual liberation.

The provided text is a detailed index or table of contents outlining the various topics and concepts covered within the commentary, structured as "Shri Dashvaikalik Vachna - [Chapter Number] Pages [Start Page] to [End Page]". This breakdown indicates the comprehensive nature of the work, covering a vast array of principles, parables, and philosophical discussions related to Jainism and monastic life.