Gurutattvavinischay Part 2

Added to library: September 1, 2025

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First page of Gurutattvavinischay Part 2

Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of Gurutattvavinischay Part 2, authored by Yashovijay Upadhyay and Rajshekharsuri, published by Jain Sahitya Vikas Mandal. The text appears to be a commentary or detailed exposition on Jain principles related to the Guru (spiritual teacher) and related concepts, specifically covering chapters (Ullas) 3 and in the second part of the work.

Based on the provided pages, here's a summary of the content:

Overall Scope and Purpose:

  • The book is identified as "Gurutattvavinischay Part 2" with Gujarati commentary and is dedicated to "Shree Shankheshwar Parshwanathaya Namaha" and "Shree Dan-Prem-HeerSuri Gurubhyo Namaha."
  • It is compiled and translated by Pandit Shri Rajshekhar Vijayji Maharaj, a disciple of Acharya Dev Shrimad Vijay Heersurishwarji Maharaj.
  • The primary goal is to make the profound literary works of Mahopadhyaya Shri Yashovijayji accessible to the general public through translation.
  • This volume (Part 2) completes the translation of the text, following the first part which covered Ullas 1-2.

Content Summary (Ullas 3 & 4):

The provided table of contents (Ullasa 3-4) and snippets of the text detail the following key themes:

Ullas 3: Guru Tattva Vinishchaya (Continuation of Guru Principles)

  • The Importance of the Guru: Ullas 3 begins with the verse emphasizing that a spiritual seeker (Moksharthi) should not abandon a good guru (Suguru) because they are the vessel for crossing the ocean of existence.
  • Types of Gurus (Four Categories): The text elaborates on four types of gurus based on their benefit to the disciple in this world and the next:
    1. Beneficial in this life, not in the next.
    2. Beneficial in the next life, not in this.
    3. Beneficial in both this life and the next.
    4. Beneficial in neither.
  • Qualities of a Good Guru: The text highlights qualities like providing necessary provisions (clothes, food), offering guidance, correction (Upalambha), and support (Upagraha). A guru who only provides material support but fails to guide and correct is deemed inappropriate.
  • Practices of a Good Guru: The text discusses the importance of guidance (Anushishti), admonishment (Upalambha), and support (Upagraha). It emphasizes that a good guru (Suvyahari) is essential for spiritual progress.
  • Circumstances for Seeking Another Guru (Gachhantar): If a guru lacks the necessary qualities like guidance (Sarana), it is permissible to seek another guru in a different lineage (Gachhantar) according to Jain principles, provided proper procedures are followed. The text details the rituals and rules for such transitions (Upsampada).
  • Deviations and Sins (Atichara) in Seeking a Guru: A significant portion of Ullas 3 is dedicated to discussing various "aticharas" (deviations or sins) that can occur when seeking a guru or a new lineage for spiritual knowledge, the necessary penances (Prayashchitta) for these, and the conditions under which these are considered valid or invalid. These include going without permission, inappropriate behavior, and various forms of misconduct related to seeking knowledge or association.
  • Classification of Bad Gurus (Kaguru): The text delves into the classification of bad gurus (Kaguru) based on their character and conduct:
    • Pārśvastha (Side-dweller): Those who remain near but don't truly engage or benefit others. This is further divided into "desha" (partial) and "sarva" (complete).
    • Avasanna: Those who are spiritually weak or fallen.
    • Kushila: Those who are morally corrupt or engage in improper conduct.
    • Sansakta: Those who are easily influenced by others' conduct.
    • Yathāchanda: Those who act according to their own whims and ignore scriptures.
  • Guidance on Dealing with Bad Gurus: The text provides instructions on how to interact with or avoid bad gurus, including identifying their traits and the consequences of associating with them. It also touches upon exceptions where certain interactions might be permissible under specific circumstances.
  • Vandana (Salutations): A detailed discussion occurs regarding when and how to offer salutations, emphasizing that respect should be based on true spiritual qualities (Vihitpana) and not merely external appearances or lineage.

Ullas 4: Nirgrantha (Ascetic) and Snātaka (Liberated Soul) Principles

  • Definition of Nirgrantha: Ullas 4 begins by defining "Nirgrantha" (ascetic) as one who is free from external (10 types) and internal (14 types) attachments.
  • Classification of Nirgranthas: The text outlines five stages or types of ascetics: Pulaka, Bakusha, Kushila, Nirgrantha, and Snātaka.
  • Detailed Description of Each Stage: Each of the five types of ascetics is then described in detail through various "Dwaras" (gateways or aspects of analysis). The table of contents lists numerous aspects like knowledge (Jnana), perception (Darshana), conduct (Charitra), penance (Pratisevana), time (Kala), conduct (Gati/Sthiti), restraint (Samyama), etc.
  • Specifics of Each Ascetic Type:
    • Pulaka: Described as having lost essence, like husk, and is further divided based on 'labdhi' (spiritual powers) and 'seva' (association).
    • Bakusha: Characterized by impure conduct, associated with attachment to equipment and body, and often associated with worldly desires. It's further divided into Upakarana Bakusha and Sharira Bakusha.
    • Kushila: Characterized by impure conduct due to internal flaws like anger, pride, deceit, greed (Kashayas), and impure actions. It's also divided based on its association with Káshayas and conduct.
    • Nirgrantha: Those who have renounced all attachments, particularly the cycle of birth and death, and have achieved freedom from karmic bonds. They are described based on their path to liberation (Upashamak and Kshapak).
    • Snātaka: Those who have achieved complete liberation, residing in Moksha. They are described based on their state of being after liberation.
  • Concepts of Attachment (Grantha): The text differentiates between external attachments (10 types) and internal attachments (14 types), emphasizing the Nirgrantha's freedom from both.
  • Consequences of Actions: Throughout the Ullas, the text links actions, intentions, and associations with the spiritual state and future destiny of the individual, especially in relation to the path of liberation.
  • The Role of the Guru: The principles discussed in these Ullas highlight the paramount importance of a true guru in navigating the complexities of Jain practice, understanding scriptural nuances, and ultimately achieving liberation. The distinction between a true guru and a false one is a recurring theme.

Key Themes and Concepts:

  • Importance of Correct Knowledge: Understanding the true nature of the Guru (Gurutattva) is crucial.
  • Discernment: The ability to differentiate between a good guru (Suguru) and a bad guru (Kaguru) is vital for spiritual progress.
  • Conduct and Character: The text meticulously analyzes conduct, intention, and association as defining characteristics of spiritual practitioners.
  • Liberation (Moksha): The ultimate goal of adhering to the teachings and the guidance of a true guru is liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
  • Scriptural Authority: The text frequently refers to and relies upon other Jain scriptures like Kalpa Sutra, Vyavahara Sutra, Bhagavati Sutra, Uttaraadhyayana, etc., for validation and detailed explanations.

Publishing Information:

  • Publisher: Jain Sahitya Vikas Mandal, Mumbai.
  • First Edition: Vikram Samvat 2043 (1987 AD).
  • Print Run: 800 copies.
  • Price: Rs. 6.

This summary provides a general overview based on the provided text snippets and table of contents. A deeper understanding would require a full reading and analysis of the original Gujarati text and its commentary.