Dharmanand Shravakachar - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Dharmanand Shravakachar" (धर्मानन्द श्रावकाचार), compiled from the provided pages:

Book Title: Dharmanand Shravakachar (धर्मानन्द श्रावकाचार) Author: Acharya Mahavirkeerti (आचार्य महावीर कीर्ति) Hindi Commentary: Ganini Aryika Vijayamati (गणिनि आर्यिका विजयामति) Publisher: Sakal Digambar Jain Samaj, Udaipur (सकल दिगम्बर जैन समाज, उदयपुर) Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/090137/1

Overview:

"Dharmanand Shravakachar" is a significant Jain text authored by Acharya Mahavirkeerti, with a detailed Hindi commentary by Ganini Aryika Vijayamati. Published by Sakal Digambar Jain Samaj, Udaipur, this book is presented as a guide for lay followers (Shravaks and Shravikas) on the principles and practices of Jain dharma. It aims to help individuals lead a virtuous and fulfilling life, ultimately leading to spiritual progress and liberation. The text is rooted in the rich tradition of Jain scriptures and the teachings of past Acharyas.

Key Figures and Lineage:

Acharya Mahavirkeerti: The author, who received diksha from the highly revered Acharya Shri 108 Adisagarji (Ankalikar). He achieved mastery in spiritual practices and profound scriptural knowledge under his guru's guidance.
Acharya Shri 108 Adisagarji (Ankalikar): A highly venerated spiritual leader, referred to as 'Munikuñjar' and 'Samadhi Samrat'. He is recognized as a significant figure in the 20th-century Jain monastic tradition for his adherence to pure conduct and spiritual prowess. He played a crucial role in reviving and upholding the pristine traditions of Jainism.
Acharya Shri 108 Sanmati Sagarji Maharaj: The guiding force and inspirer behind the publication of this book, as indicated by his blessings and patronage.
Ganini Aryika Vijayamati: The esteemed commentator who has illuminated the original text with her profound understanding and lucid explanations in Hindi, making it accessible to a wider audience. She is described as a "Jnana Chintamani" and "Ratnatraya Hriday Samrat".

Core Message and Purpose:

The central theme of "Dharmanand Shravakachar" is the detailed exposition of Shravak Dharma (lay follower's conduct). The book emphasizes that true dharma is not merely theoretical knowledge but the practice of righteous conduct (Charitra). It highlights the importance of Ahimsa (non-violence) as the supreme dharma and the foundation of all Jain principles.

The book aims to:

Guide householders in their daily lives, covering ethical conduct, religious observances, and spiritual discipline.
Provide a clear path towards achieving spiritual purity and self-realization.
Educate readers on various aspects of Jain philosophy, including the nature of the soul, karma, and the path to liberation.
Emphasize the renunciation of vices and the cultivation of virtues.
Offer practical guidance on how to live a life of contentment, peace, and spiritual joy (Dharmanand).

Structure and Content (Chapter Breakdown):

The book is structured into ten chapters, systematically covering the essence of Jain lay conduct:

Chapter 1: General Principles and Renunciation of False Beliefs: This chapter introduces the significance of the text, defines dharma as conduct (Charitra), and emphasizes the abandonment of misconception (Mithyatva). It highlights the importance of Ahimsa, the nature of the Three Jewels (Ratnatraya - Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct), and the avoidance of harmful practices and beliefs.
Chapter 2: The True Nature of Dharma and the Three Jewels: This chapter delves into the true nature of dharma, the qualifications for embracing it, and the profound significance of the Three Jewels (Samya-darshan, Samya-gyana, Samya-charitra). It details the eight Angas (limbs) of Right Faith and the twenty-five faults that can corrupt it. It also provides an introduction to the eight types of karmas.
Chapter 3: The Principles of Non-Violence (Ahimsa): This chapter extensively discusses the concept of violence (Himsa) and non-violence (Ahimsa). It explains the root causes of violence, such as passions (Kashayas), and contrasts the destructive nature of violence with the life-affirming nature of non-violence. It emphasizes the importance of abstaining from various forms of violence, including those committed through speech and thought, and highlights the detrimental effects of intoxicants, meat, honey, night-food, and root vegetables. It also critiques practices that involve violence for religious rituals or perceived benefits.
Chapter 4: Duties of a Householder and Essential Virtues: This chapter outlines the daily duties of a householder, including devotion to the Divine (Deva Puja), reverence for Gurus (Guru Upasti), study of scriptures (Swadhyaya), self-discipline (Sanyama), ascetic practices (Tapa), and charity (Dana). It also discusses the importance of abstaining from prohibited actions and the adherence to foundational virtues (Moolgunas).
Chapter 5: The Five Vows (Anuvratas): This chapter elaborates on the five primary vows undertaken by lay followers: Ahimsa (Non-violence), Satya (Truthfulness), Asteya (Non-stealing), Brahmacharya (Celibacy/Chastity), and Parigraha Parimana (Limitation of Possessions). It explains the core principles of each vow and their associated transgressions (Aticharas).
Chapter 6: Subsidiary Vows (Gunavratas): This chapter details the three subsidiary vows that reinforce the primary vows: Digvrat (Limitation of region), Deshkalvrat (Limitation of time and space), and Anarthdandvrat (Abstinence from purposeless harm).
Chapter 7: Observances for Spiritual Growth (Shikshavratas): This chapter describes the four observances that further refine spiritual practice: Samayika (Equanimity/Meditation), Proshadhopavasa (Fasting on specific days), Bhogopbhog Parimana (Regulation of consumable and usable items), and Atithi Samvibhaga (Charity to the deserving).
Chapter 8: Sallekhana (Voluntary Fasting unto Death): This chapter explains the practice of Sallekhana, a holy death achieved through gradual fasting and spiritual preparation. It details the conditions under which it is appropriate, the methods, the importance of mental detachment, and the necessary preparations for a peaceful and intentional departure from life, leading to a favorable rebirth or liberation. It distinguishes Sallekhana from suicide.
Chapter 9: Transgressions (Aticharas) of the Vows: This chapter meticulously lists and explains the various transgressions associated with each of the vows (Samayika, Proshadhopavasa, Bhogopbhog Parimana, Atithi Samvibhaga, and the Anuvratas), including those of Right Faith (Samya-darshan). It emphasizes the importance of diligently avoiding these transgressions to uphold the sanctity of the vows.
Chapter 10: Stages of Lay Purity (Pratimas): This chapter describes the eleven stages of spiritual progress for lay followers, known as Pratimas. It outlines the gradual purification of conduct and the increasing renunciation of worldly attachments as one progresses through these stages, moving closer to monastic life and ultimate liberation. It details the characteristics of each stage, from the initial adherence to basic principles to the highest levels of detachment.

Key Principles Emphasized:

Ahimsa: The paramount importance of non-violence in thought, word, and deed.
Ratnatraya: The practice of Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct as the path to liberation.
Renunciation of Vices: The text systematically details the abandonment of harmful habits and negative tendencies, such as intoxication, meat-eating, honey consumption, night-eating, indulgence in sensual pleasures, and attachment to worldly possessions.
Importance of Purity: Emphasis on maintaining purity in one's actions, thoughts, and environment, including the careful use of water and adherence to dietary restrictions.
Devotion and Reverence: The need for devotion to the Tirthankaras (deities), the scriptures (Shastra), and the venerable ascetics (Guru).
Charity and Compassion: The practice of sincere charity (Dana) in its various forms (Ahar, Oushadh, Abhay, Shastra) and the cultivation of compassion for all living beings.
Discipline and Moderation: The importance of self-discipline, moderation in actions and desires, and the adherence to vows and observances.
Spiritual Progress: The gradual advancement through the eleven stages of lay purity (Pratimas) as a structured path towards spiritual realization.

Significance:

"Dharmanand Shravakachar" serves as a vital text for anyone seeking to understand and practice the principles of Jainism in their daily life. It provides a comprehensive and practical framework for householders to lead a dharmic existence, fostering inner peace, spiritual growth, and contributing to the welfare of all beings. The commentary by Aryika Vijayamati makes the profound teachings of Acharya Mahavirkeerti accessible and relevant to contemporary readers. The book reflects the continuous effort within the Jain tradition to disseminate and preserve the wisdom of the Tirthankaras.