Guru Ek Ya Anek Naydrushti

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Guru Ek Ya Anek Naydrushti" by Pramodmuni, based on the provided pages:

The text, drawing from scriptures like the Dashvaikalik Sutra and Visheshavashyakbhashya, delves into the concept of a "Guru" within Jainism, emphasizing the importance of Naydrushti (perspective) in understanding this multifaceted role.

Core Argument: The Guru - One or Many?

The central theme is exploring whether a Jain can have one guru or many. The author asserts that Nays, or different perspectives, allow for both interpretations.

Different Perspectives on the Guru:

• Tirthankaras and Virtuous Ascetics (Sadhus): Both Tirthankaras and virtuous Sadhus are considered Gurus. For those who received knowledge directly from Tirthankaras, they are the Dharma Acharyas (spiritual preceptors). For those who learned from Sadhus, the Sadhus are their Gurus.
• Behavioral Perspective (Vyavahar Nay): From a practical standpoint, when acquiring knowledge and guidance from a single teacher, the Guru is considered one. This is supported by the principle that service can be rendered to all Sadhus, even when having one primary Guru.
• Universal Gurus: All Tirthankaras are universally the Gurus of the world. Even though they are included in the 'Deva' category in the Namaskar Mantra, for those who have eradicated ignorance and attained right knowledge (Samyaktva), Tirthankaras are the Gurus. Disciples like Gautama and others addressed Tirthankaras as their Dharma Acharyas, Dharmopadeshaks, and Dharmagurus.
• Sadhus as Gurus: All Sadhus, by virtue of their adherence to the five Mahavratas (great vows), five Samitis (vigilance), three Guptis (restraints), and ten Dharmas (virtues), are worthy of reverence as Gurus. The saying "Javajjeevam Susahunno Guruno" (A virtuous Sadhu is a Guru for life) is cited.
• Distant vs. Proximate Gurus: Ascetics in Mahavideh and other regions are considered indirectly beneficial, and can be venerated and praised. However, for practical spiritual progress, the text argues that one must follow a single Guru.

The Importance of a Single Guru for Practice:

• Guidance and Direction: For practical progression in spiritual practice, including prayshchitt (penance), alochna (confession), study plans, movement, chaturmas (four-month monastic retreat) decisions, and personal development, having one Guru is essential.
• Dedicating Actions: The act of performing Samayik (equanimity) with the invocation "Karemi Bhante!" (I do, O Revered One!) signifies a deep and focused devotion to one Guru. Even when the Guru is not physically present, the disciple focuses their consciousness on the Guru's virtues. This intense focus, it is argued, leads to the Guru's essence being absorbed into the disciple's being, establishing a singular spiritual connection.
• Ego Transcendence: True spiritual progress is achieved by dedicating one's entire existence and actions to the Guru's command, thereby overcoming ego and becoming a true aspirant. Even in the final renunciation (sankhLekhana) described in the Avasyak Sutra, one is instructed to venerate their specific Dharma Acharya.

The Qualities and Role of a Guru:

• Free from Defilements: Arhants and Siddhas are free from the origin of wrongdoing and are considered faultless deities. Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and Sadhus are those striving for faultlessness and are mindful in their pursuit.
• Benevolent and Transformative: A truly compassionate Guru can transform a person devoid of virtues, influenced by wrong beliefs and passions, into a virtuous and righteous individual. Examples like the story of Sudhbudhi Pradhan are used to illustrate this transformative power.
• Ethical Conduct: The text implicitly criticizes the fragmentation of the monastic order and the tendency to find fault with other traditions. It emphasizes adhering to the principles of the Guru and supporting all noble individuals.
• Service and Devotion: The text stresses that service that promotes sloth, solitary wandering, or misconduct is not beneficial for shedding karma. True service benefits both the self and others.

The Principle of "Guru Ek, Seva Anek" (One Guru, Many Services):

This concluding phrase encapsulates the core message: while one must follow a singular Guru for practical spiritual guidance, one can and should offer service to all virtuous ascetics. This underscores the importance of respecting the monastic community while maintaining a dedicated spiritual path.

In essence, the text argues that while all virtuous ascetics are worthy of respect and service, for the practical and profound journey of spiritual liberation, a disciple must align themselves with and be guided by a single, specific Guru. The concept of Naydrushti allows for understanding both the universal presence of spiritual teachers and the essential singular focus required for personal growth and liberation.