Jain Darshanma Atichar Sutro Tatha Jain Dharmnu Gyan Vigyan - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jain Darshanma Atichar Sutro tatha Jain Dharmnu Gyan Vigyan" by Kumudchandra Gokaldas Shah, based on the provided pages:

This book is a compilation aimed at providing Jain practitioners, particularly laypersons (Shravaks), with an understanding of key Jain concepts, rituals, and ethical principles, focusing on the "Atichar Sutras" and the knowledge-science of Jainism.

Core Content and Structure:

The book is structured to guide the reader through essential elements of Jain practice and philosophy. It begins with foundational prayers and invocations, then delves into the specifics of "Atichar Sutras" and broader Jain knowledge.

Key Sections and Their Summaries:

Invocations and Salutations (Page 1-2):
- The book opens with the sacred mantra "Namah Siddhyanam" and invocations to Lord Mahavir and Gautam Swami, reflecting the core tenets of Jainism.
- It is dedicated to the memory of the compiler's parents and son, highlighting the importance of familial reverence.
- The title itself, "Jain Darshanma Atichar Sutro tatha Jain Dharmnu Gyan Vigyan" (Atichar Sutras in Jain Philosophy and the Knowledge-Science of Jain Dharma), clearly states the book's purpose.
Praise of Parents (Page 3):
- A section is dedicated to praising parents, emphasizing their role as providers of happiness and their invaluable contributions, likening them to living deities ("Jagam Tirth"). It encourages devotion and service to them, considering those who neglect their elders as ungrateful.
Introduction to Atichar Sutras and Jain Knowledge (Page 8-10):
- The preface explains that the book covers several important Jain texts and concepts:
  - Navkar Mantra: Starting with the fundamental Navkar Mantra.
  - Atichar Sutras: Three types of Atichar Sutras are presented:
    - Panchachar: The eight verses (Gathas) describing the five "Achars" (courses of conduct) – Jnanachar (Conduct of Knowledge), Darshanachar (Conduct of Faith), Charitrachar (Conduct of Behavior), Tapachar (Conduct of Austerity), and Viryachar (Conduct of Energy). The verses are called "Atichar Gathas" because deviations (Atichars) from these Achars lead to faults.
    - Nanumi Dassanami Sutra: This is identified as the "Shraddh (Layperson's) Pratikraman Sutra," detailing minor transgressions (Atichars) applicable to lay disciples. This section covers 124 Atichars that are recited daily in the evening, and also during Pakshik, Chauomasi, and Samvatsari Pratikramans.
    - Vanditu Sutra: This section specifically discusses the Atichars related to the twelve vows of a layperson, with detailed explanations of each transgression.
  - Muhapatti Rules: Fifty rules concerning the purification (prilehan) of the Muhapatti (mouth cloth) and other parts of the body, emphasizing that material purification leads to spiritual purification and fosters the growth of Dharma within the heart.
  - Lord Mahavir's Glorious Hymn: A hymn starting with "Namo Durvar Ragadi" in Sanskrit, along with two other verses, is included. This hymn is primarily an adoration of Lord Mahavir and the twenty-four Tirthankaras.
- Shorter vs. Extended Atichars: The text notes that Atichars are presented in both concise (Sankshipt) and detailed (Vistar) forms in prose. The author questions the necessity of both, citing the difficulty of memorizing two versions and the potential for confusion.
- Poetic Rendering of Atichars: The book acknowledges the significant contribution of Bhattaraka Acharya Maharaj Shri Parichandrasuriji M. Sa., who composed the 124 Atichars in "Chaupai" meter, making them easier for Shravaks to memorize and recite during Pratikramans. This poetic rendering is highly appreciated for its accessibility, even for children.
Pancha Achara (Five Conducts) Explained (Page 17-20):
- The book elaborates on the eight Gathas related to the Pancha Achara, breaking them down into their constituent parts.
- Jnanachar: Discusses its eight types (e.g., time, learning, respect, meaning, expression).
- Darshanachar: Outlines its eight types (e.g., conviction, desirelessness, unwavering faith, firm faith, compassion, propagation).
- Charitrachar: Describes its eight types (e.g., composure, control over senses, and virtuous actions).
- Tapachar: Details its twelve types, divided into six external (Anshan, Udarya, Vritti Sankshipt, Ras Tyag, Kay Klesh, Sanlinata) and six internal (Prayashchitta, Vinay, Vaiyavachch, Swadhyay, Dhyan, Kaussarg) forms.
- Viryachar: Explains its three types (e.g., unhidden strength, effort as advised by Tirthankaras, action according to capacity).
- Note: The text correctly points out that these eight Gathas, while called "Atichar Gathas," primarily describe the five Achars. Atichars arise from negligence in these Achars.
Vanditu Sutra (Shraddh Pratikraman Sutra) - Detailed Atichars (Page 20-36):
- This extensive section details the Atichars for the twelve vows undertaken by lay Jains. It is presented in verse (Arya Chhand) and then elaborated in prose with detailed explanations.
- It systematically covers Atichars for:
  - General Vows (Sava-gadh-dhamma-iyaras)
  - Knowledge Atichars (Jnan Atichar)
  - Faith/Conduct Atichars (Darshan Atichar)
  - Charitra Atichars (Charitrachar)
  - The five Atichars of Samyak Darshan (Sankaa, Kaanksha, Vichikitsa, Prashansa, Sansthav)
  - Atichars related to the twelve vows (Anuvratas and Gunavratas, Shikshavratas):
    - First Anuvrata (Prana-atipata Viraman): Five Atichars (e.g., Vadha, Bandha, Chhedi).
    - Second Anuvrata (Mrushavada Viraman): Five Atichars (e.g., Sahasa, Rahasya).
    - Third Anuvrata (Adattadana Viraman): Five Atichars (e.g., Steya, Taskara Prayog).
    - Fourth Anuvrata (Maithuna Viraman): Five Atichars (e.g., Aparigrahita, Itar Parigrahita).
    - Fifth Anuvrata (Parigraha Parimana): Five Atichars (e.g., Dhana Dhanya, Kshetra Vastu).
    - First Gunavrata (Diga Parimana): Five Atichars (e.g., spatial limitations).
    - Second Gunavrata (Upabhoga Parimana): Twenty Atichars (5 related to eating, 15 related to Kirmadan - occupations).
    - Third Gunavrata (Anartha Danda Viramana): Five Atichars (e.g., sensory indulgence, excessive possessions).
    - First Shikshavrata (Samayika): Five Atichars (e.g., improper conduct of mind, speech, body).
    - Second Shikshavrata (Deshavagashika): Five Atichars (e.g., bringing things from outside the boundary).
    - Third Shikshavrata (Paushadha): Five Atichars (e.g., improper care of resting place).
    - Fourth Shikshavrata (Atithi Samvibhaaga): Five Atichars (e.g., offering impure food, stinginess).
- It also covers Atichars for Samlekhana (final vows) and Tapasya (external and internal).
- Emphasis on Understanding: The text stresses the importance of understanding the meaning of these sutras rather than just reciting them, and performing Pratikraman with genuine repentance and remorse.
Atichar Sutras in Prose (Gady) (Page 36-50):
- This section reiterates the Atichars for Pakshik, Chauomasi, and Samvatsari Pratikramans in prose, providing detailed explanations of the difficult words used in the verses. This section significantly expands on the previous section, offering a more in-depth understanding.
Atichar Sutras in Poetry (Pady) (Page 51-78):
- This section presents the Atichars in Chaupai meter, following the poetic rendition mentioned earlier. It covers the same Atichars as the prose section, making them more accessible for recitation and memorization. The structure generally follows the order of vows and their transgressions.
Muhapatti and Anga Prilehan Rules (Page 115-116):
- This section provides 50 "Bels" (rules or verses) for the proper way to purify (Prilehan) the Muhapatti and other parts of the body during rituals like Samayika and Pratikraman. It emphasizes the importance of mindful and correct practice.
Hymn: "Namo Durvar Ragadi" (Page 101-102):
- This section includes a devotional hymn in Sanskrit praising Lord Mahavir, highlighting his victory over passions and his role as a savior. The verses are meant to be recited with devotion.
Pariśiṣṭa (Appendices) (Page 102-180):
- This is a substantial section containing various supplementary knowledge related to Jainism:
  - Glory of Navkar Mantra: Explaining its power, significance, and the virtues of the Pancha Parameṣṭhis.
  - Detailed description of Pancha Parameṣṭhi: Elaborates on the qualities and significance of Arihantas, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and Sadhus.
  - Jain Knowledge-Science: This is a broad category covering many aspects:
    - Four Chapters: Including Jiv Vichar (discussion on souls), Navatattva (Nine Universal Truths), Dandak (categories of beings), and Laghu Sangrahani (a compendium of categories).
    - Sixty-three Shalakapurush: Explaining the exalted beings in Jainism.
    - Ten Rare Boons: Highlighting ten favorable circumstances for spiritual progress.
    - Six Dravyas: The fundamental substances in Jain ontology.
    - Means to achieve Moksha: The path to liberation.
    - Vikhatha-Sukhatha: Discussion on harmful versus beneficial discourse.
    - Soul of Jainism: The core essence of Jain Dharma.
    - Trigoti, Chhatkoti, Navkoti: Categorization of actions or principles.
    - Kotsarg-Kaussarg: Explaining the concept of meditative suspension of activity.
    - Tapa: Austerities and their importance.
    - Suvakya: Good sayings or aphorisms.
    - Religious Education: Emphasis on teaching the faith.
    - Shraddh and Viveka: The role of a layperson and wisdom.
    - Daily Aradhana: Daily spiritual practice.
    - Saraswati Keertan: Praise of the Goddess of knowledge.
    - Cinema and Alcohol: Critical perspective on cinema and alcohol consumption.
    - Apashabda: Use of offensive language.
    - As the sight, so the perception: The importance of perspective.
    - Derasar and Chaitra Vandan-Stavan: Importance of temple worship and hymns.
    - Miraculous fact about our body: The wonders of the human body.
    - Guru, Suguru, Sadguru: The different levels of spiritual guides.
    - Worship of Knowledge – Gnana Panchami: The significance of knowledge worship.
    - What women should think about: A reflective section for women.
    - British game – Cricket: A commentary on the popularity of cricket.
    - Jainism's Three Principles: The core tenets.
    - Gautam Swami's Short Ras with meaning: Explaining a devotional song.
    - Gautam Swami's Long Ras: Explaining another devotional song.
    - Girnar Tirth – An Avadhuta Dharma: Information about Girnar pilgrimage.
    - Custom of weeping and mourning: Critiquing unproductive rituals.
    - Jain: General reference.
    - Excess in anything is to be avoided: A principle of moderation.
    - Grains of Thought: Philosophical reflections.

Overall Purpose and Significance:

The book aims to be a comprehensive guide for Jains to understand and practice their faith diligently. By explaining the "Atichar Sutras" and providing a wealth of knowledge about Jain philosophy, ethics, and rituals, it encourages introspection, repentance for transgressions, and a deeper commitment to the Jain path. The inclusion of poetic renditions of complex rules and detailed explanations of vows makes the teachings accessible and practical for daily life. The "Pariśiṣṭa" section further enriches the reader's understanding of Jainism's vast philosophical and practical dimensions.