Diksha Dvantrinshika - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Diksha Dvātrinśikā" based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Diksha Dvātrinśikā (Part 28 of Dvātrinśad Dvātrinśikā) Original Author: Upadhyay Shri Yashovijayji Maharaj (also known as 'Laghu Haribhadra') Commentator/Explanator: Panditvar Shri Pravinchandra Khimji Mota Publisher: Gitarth Ganga Trust, Ahmedabad Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/004688/1

This work is a detailed, word-by-word commentary by Panditvar Shri Pravinchandra Khimji Mota on the 28th section, "Diksha Dvātrinśikā," from the larger work "Dvātrinśad Dvātrinśikā" by the renowned Jain scholar Upadhyay Yashovijayji Maharaj. The "Dvātrinśad Dvātrinśikā" itself is a monumental work where Upadhyay Yashovijayji explains 32 different subjects, each with 32 verses, drawing extensively from Agama scriptures and the teachings of previous Acharyas.

Core Subject: Diksha (Initiation/Renunciation)

The "Diksha Dvātrinśikā" meticulously defines and elaborates on the concept of Diksha within Jainism.

Etymological Meaning of Diksha: The text begins by explaining the origin of the word "Diksha." It is derived from "Di," meaning to "give," and "Ksha," meaning to "destroy." Therefore, Diksha is that which bestows auspiciousness (Shreyas) and destroys inauspiciousness (Ashiv). It is described as an activity that eradicates worldly suffering and leads to the ultimate happiness of Moksha.

Types and Aspects of Diksha: The commentary delves into various facets of Diksha:

Four Types of Diksha:
- Namadiksha: The naming ceremony during initiation, where the new name reflects the initiate's potential qualities.
- Sthāpanādiksha: The adoption of the monastic attire and implements (like the broom and veil) representing the path of renunciation.
- Dravyadiksha: The actual practice of monastic conduct, scripture study, and adherence to the vows and disciplines.
- Bhāvadiksha: The internal disposition and firm conviction that the teachings of the Lord are supreme, leading to detachment from worldly affairs.
Stages of Virtues: The text details the progressive development of virtues associated with Diksha:
- Initial Stage: Manifestation of Vachan-Kshamā (patience in speech) and related virtues like gentleness and straightforwardness in speech.
- Established Stage: As Diksha becomes well-established, Dharma-Kshamā (patience in Dharma) and its related virtues emerge.
Five Types of Kshamā (Patience/Forgiveness): The text elaborates on five types of Kshamā, and similar classifications apply to gentleness (Mriduta), straightforwardness (Rujuta), and detachment (Nirīhatā):
- Upakār-Kshamā: Patience despite receiving benefits from someone.
- Apakār-Kshamā: Patience contemplating that anger might lead to harm from the other person.
- Vipāk-Kshamā: Patience considering the adverse consequences (Vipāk) of impatience.
- Vachan-Kshamā: Patience derived from contemplating the Lord's teachings, which are conducive to detachment.
- Dharma-Kshamā: The inherent, natural forgiveness that arises from the soul's pure nature, like the fragrance of sandalwood.
Four Types of Anushthāna (Practices/Conduct):
- Preeti-Anushthāna: Practice motivated by affection for the teachings.
- Bhakti-Anushthāna: Practice motivated by reverence for the Lord and His teachings.
- Vachan-Anushthāna: Practice strictly following the Lord's words.
- Asanga-Anushthāna: Practice characterized by detachment from all external objects and states, arising from deep internalization.

Key Principles and Arguments:

Knowledgeable Person's Diksha: Diksha is primarily for the knowledgeable (Jñānī) or those who follow the knowledgeable (Jñāni-nishrāvat). This highlights the importance of understanding the true essence of Diksha.
The Role of Names (Namadiksha): The choice of a new name is significant. A name reflecting virtue (e.g., 'Prashānta') can remind the practitioner of those qualities and inspire them to cultivate them, thus aiding in the successful and peaceful observance of Diksha.
Diksha and Purity of Conduct: The text emphasizes that genuine Diksha involves not just external actions but a deep internal shift. The aspirant must strive to overcome internal enemies like desires and passions (Kashāyas) and sense-pleasures (Indriyas).
The Body as an Enemy: The body, which is the source of attachment and desires, is paradoxically the field of battle for the aspirant. The practice of austerities and self-discipline is a way to subdue the body, seen as a tool for spiritual progress rather than an object of attachment.
The Nuance of 'Shubha' vs. 'Shuddha' Yoga: The commentary addresses a point of contention, likely with Digambara traditions, regarding the efficacy of 'Shubha Yoga' (auspicious activity involving some attachment, like devotion to the Lord's teachings) versus 'Shuddha Yoga' (pure, detached contemplation of the soul). The text argues that both are essential and interconnected. While 'Shuddha Yoga' is the ultimate goal, 'Shubha Yoga' in its various forms (like following the Lord's commands and practicing austerities) serves as a necessary step and support for achieving 'Shuddha Yoga' and ultimately Moksha. They are not mutually exclusive but rather progressive stages.
The Importance of Anushthāna and Kshamā: The text stresses that true spiritual progress arises from the consistent practice of virtuous conduct (Anushthāna) and the cultivation of patience (Kshamā) in all circumstances. The progression from Vachan-Kshamā to Dharma-Kshamā and the interplay between different types of Anushthāna and Kshamā are explained in detail.
Stages of Progress: The text outlines a progressive path where virtuous conduct and practices lead to the purification of the soul. After a year of practice, the practitioner's virtues become 'Shukla' (pure or white), signifying a higher state of spiritual development, even influencing the subtle energies of celestial beings.
The True Measure of Diksha: The duration of Diksha is not merely measured in days, months, or years, but in the moments of unbroken adherence to virtuous conduct and the absence of internal defilements (like passions) – the "moments of unbroken virtue."
The Value of True Renunciation: The text criticizes those who undergo the external rituals of Diksha but remain attached to worldly desires and bodily comforts, labeling such a Diksha as meaningless and ultimately detrimental.
The Goal of Pure Conduct: The ultimate aim is the purification of the soul's inherent nature. Even during necessary activities like collecting alms, the practice should be guided by detachment and the aspiration for pure contemplation.

Overall Purpose:

This commentary aims to provide a clear and profound understanding of the principles of Diksha as laid out by Upadhyay Yashovijayji Maharaj. It serves as a guide for sincere aspirants seeking to understand the path of renunciation and its transformative power in achieving liberation. The detailed explanations help in grasping the philosophical depth and practical application of these Jain principles.