Jain Dharm Me Achar - Book Summary

This document, titled "Jain Dharm me Achar" (Conduct in Jainism) by Rishabhdas Ranka, is an essay explaining the ethical and philosophical foundations of Jainism. The text emphasizes that Jainism is primarily an ethical system, though it is grounded in a profound philosophy derived from experience.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the key points:

Core Philosophy of Jainism:

Ultimate Goal: The ultimate aim in Jainism is eternal happiness and peace, achieved through spiritual liberation (Moksha).
Spiritual vs. Material Happiness: Jainism distinguishes between fleeting, suffering-inducing worldly pleasures and the lasting, self-sufficient happiness of the soul.
Two Primary Substances: The universe is composed of two fundamental elements:
- Jiva (Soul): Characterized by consciousness (Upayog), which manifests as perception (Darshan) and knowledge (Gyan). Jivas are classified from one-sensed to five-sensed beings, with the potential for full development. The principle of Ahimsa (non-violence) stems from the belief in the equality of all souls.
- Ajiva (Non-soul): Consists of five categories: Pudgal (matter), Dharma (medium of motion), Adharma (medium of rest), Akasha (space), and Kala (time). Jainism is atomistic, viewing the visible world as an aggregate of atoms.
Six Substances (Dravyas): Jiva and the five Ajiva elements constitute the six Dravyas. A key characteristic of a substance is its permanence (Dhrouvya) alongside origination (Utpad) and cessation (Vya) of its modes (Paryayas).
Syadvada/Anekantavada (Theory of Manifold Aspects): Jainism reconciles the Vedantic concept of immutable permanence with the Buddhist concept of momentary change. It posits that substances are eternal but their modes are subject to change. This perspective, emphasizing multiple viewpoints, is crucial for understanding reality and fostering tolerance.

The Path to Liberation (Moksha):

Karma Theory: The soul's actions (through mind, speech, and body), driven by passions like attachment, aversion, ego, anger, pride, deceit, and greed, attract karmic particles (Pudgal). This influx of karma is called Asrava.
Bondage (Bandha): The accumulation of karma obscures the soul's pure nature, leading to bondage. The soul-karma connection is considered beginningless.
Cessation of Karma (Samvara): This is the process of stopping the influx of new karma through self-control and ethical conduct.
Shedding of Karma (Nirjara): This is the process of eradicating accumulated karma through austerities and diligent practice of virtuous conduct.
Moksha (Liberation): When all karma is destroyed, the soul achieves its pure, unadulterated state, becoming a Siddha (liberated soul) or Paramatma (Supreme Soul), free from suffering.

Seven Tattvas (Principles):

Jiva, Ajiva, Asrava, Bandha, Samvara, Nirjara, and Moksha are the fundamental principles. Some also include Punhya (merit) and Pap (demerit) as the results of auspicious and inauspicious actions.

The Role of Conduct (Achar):

Practical and Intellectual: Jainism is presented as both understandable and practical, with its philosophy accessible to any enlightened individual.
Self-Awareness: Understanding one's inner thoughts and desires through introspection is vital.
The Three Jewels (Triratna): The path to liberation is paved by:
1. Samyak Shraddha (Right Faith): Correct belief and understanding of the soul-body distinction.
2. Samyak Gyan (Right Knowledge): Accurate knowledge of reality. This requires an open, liberal attitude, acknowledging that all things have multiple qualities and perspectives (Anekant).
3. Samyak Charitra (Right Conduct): Ethical behavior and living in accordance with right knowledge and faith.

The Five Great Vows (Mahavratas):

These are the core ethical principles, with Ahimsa being paramount.

Ahimsa (Non-violence): Based on the principle of the equality of all beings. It extends to thoughts, speech, and actions. While complete absence of violence is impossible due to bodily functions, minimizing it through mindfulness and careful action is the goal. The text differentiates between the stricter adherence of monks (Mahavratas) and the modified vows of householders (Anuvratas).
Satya (Truthfulness): Speaking beneficial and unharmful truth. It advises against accusations, revealing secrets, and speaking anything that causes harm.
Asteya (Non-stealing): Not taking what is not freely given, including buying stolen goods or encouraging theft.
Brahmacharya (Chastity/Celibacy): Complete renunciation of sensual pleasures for ascetics. For householders, it means contentment within one's own spouse.
Aparigraha (Non-possession/Non-attachment): Greed is seen as the root of sin and a major obstacle to Ahimsa. Limiting possessions (Parigraha Pariman) is essential for peace and well-being, echoing the concept of Trusteeship.

Three Auxiliary Vows (Guna Vratas):

These support the Mahavratas and include controlling sensory pleasures, travel, and consumption.

Dik Pariman Vrata: Limiting movement in specific directions.
Upbhog Paribhog Pariman Vrata: Limiting the use of consumable and enjoyable items.
Anarthdand Viraman Vrata: Abstaining from useless or sinful activities.

Four Observances (Shiksha Vratas):

These are for further spiritual development:

Samayika: A period of equanimity and meditation, practiced daily to cultivate mental purity.
Deshavakashika Vrata: Limiting activities and consumption to a specific area or time.
Pausadha Vrata: Observing ascetic practices for a set period, akin to temporary monasticism.
Atithi Samvibhaga Vrata: Sharing one's resources with saints, the needy, and the suffering, emphasizing charity and compassion.

The Importance of Charity (Dan):

Charity is a significant aspect of Jain life, with Abhaydan (fearlessness/protection) being the highest form, followed by Gyan-dan (knowledge), Oushadh-dan (medicine), and Anna-dan (food).
Jainism has historically engaged in missionary activities, using these forms of charity to spread its message. Jain institutions like hospitals and schools are evidence of this commitment.

Key Characteristics of Jainism:

Emphasis on Self-Effort (Purushartha): Individuals are responsible for their own destiny.
Rejection of an Earthly Creator God: Jainism believes the soul can achieve godhood through its own efforts, not by divine intervention.
Intellectual and Rational: Jainism is based on reason and understanding, not blind faith.
Universality and Inclusivity: Jainism is a "Jan-Dharma" (people's religion), accessible to all, irrespective of caste, creed, or gender. Its principles are beneficial for the welfare of all (Sarvodaya).
Personal Freedom: Jainism respects individual autonomy, allowing people to achieve self-welfare through various spiritual paths.
Non-Dogmatic: Lord Mahavir's teachings are presented as eternal truths, not personal opinions, inviting adherence to the path of equanimity.

In essence, the text provides a comprehensive overview of Jain ethics and philosophy, highlighting Ahimsa and Anekantavada as central tenets and outlining the practical steps of Samvara and Nirjara through the Mahavratas and other observances as the means to achieve the ultimate goal of spiritual liberation.