Jain Muni Ki Aachar Samhita Ka Sarvangin Adhyayan - Book Summary

This comprehensive summary is based on the provided Jain text, "Jain Muni Ki Aachar Samhita Ka Sarvangin Adhyayan" by Saumyagunashreeji. The book, published by Prachya Vidyapith, is a detailed study of the code of conduct for Jain monks.

Overall Summary:

The book, "Jain Muni Ki Aachar Samhita Ka Sarvangin Adhyayan" (A Comprehensive Study of the Code of Conduct for Jain Monks), authored by Dr. Sadhvi Saumyaguna Shri and guided by Dr. Sagarmal Jain, is a monumental 5-volume research work. This particular section (Volume 5, as indicated by page numbering and context) delves deeply into the multifaceted aspects of the code of conduct for Jain monks, known as "Shramanaachar." It aims to provide a comparative and critical analysis of Jain legal and ritualistic practices, particularly focusing on the ascetic life.

The work is dedicated to Acharya Shri Padma Sagar Surishwarji M.S. and is lauded for its thorough research and insightful presentation of complex Jain principles. The book highlights the rigorous discipline, ethical standards, and daily routines that govern the life of a Jain monk, emphasizing their role in embodying the principles of renunciation, non-violence, and spiritual pursuit central to Jain philosophy.

Key Themes and Content Covered in the Provided Text:

The provided text serves as an introductory and foundational section, outlining the scope and significance of studying the conduct of Jain monks. It lays the groundwork by:

Introduction to Shramana Culture:
- Emphasizes Shramana culture as an "achara pradhana" (conduct-oriented) culture, where "Achara paramo dharma" (Conduct is the supreme dharma) is paramount.
- Explains that renunciation (nivritti) in Jainism does not imply emptiness but rather abstaining from unrighteous conduct and embracing righteous conduct (sadachara).
- Defines "Shramanaachaar" as the daily activities and practices undertaken by monks for their livelihood and physical sustenance, encompassing their entire behavioral aspect.
- Contrasts Shramana culture with Vedic tradition, highlighting the former's focus on spiritual life through renunciation and detachment, while the latter represents a more materialistic and social life.
- Defines the external aspect of Shramana life as abstaining from sinful activities and the internal aspect as transcending passions like attachment and aversion.
The Ideal of a Shramana (Monk):
- Describes a monk as an embodiment of numerous virtues and possessing essential qualifications.
- Mentions the Shvetambara tradition's emphasis on 27 basic virtues and the Digambara tradition's emphasis on 28 basic virtues for a monk.
- Highlights the inclusion of 70 more virtues, including the five great vows (Mahavratas), ten Shramana virtues, seventeen types of self-restraint (Sanyam), ten types of respectful service (Vaiyaavritya), nine controls of the senses and mind (Gupti), the three jewels (Ratnatraya), twelve types of austerities (Tapa), and the control of anger, pride, deceit, and greed (Kashaya). This set of 70 virtues is referred to as "Charana Sattari."
- Introduces "Karana Sattari," which includes four types of purification of alms (Pindavishuddhi), five careful movements (Samiti), twelve contemplations (Bhavana), twelve stages of spiritual progress (Pratima), control of the five senses, twenty-five types of cleansing (Pratilekhana), three controls (Gupti), and four vows (Abhigraha).
Shramanaachaar in Jain Agamas:
- States that Shramanaachaar is a subtle practice where monks observe extreme caution towards even the smallest of beings.
- Notes that Jain Agamas meticulously detail every aspect of monastic life, including conduct during the day and night, behavior with gurus, adherence to specific observances during different seasons, and more.
- Quotes the Dashavaikalika Sutra: "Where should one walk, where should one stand, where should one sit, where should one rest..." (Kahaṁ chare, kahaṁ chiṭṭhe, kahaṁ māse, kahaṁ sae...). This illustrates the detailed nature of monastic regulations.
Classification of Monastic Rules:
- Divides monastic rules into three main categories:
  - Aachaar Vishayak (Conduct-related): Includes ten types of 'kalpa' (rules), ten types of 'samachari' (conduct rules), twenty-one 'shabala dosha' (compound faults), twenty 'asamaadhisthaan' (causes of disquiet), twenty-two 'parishaha' (endurements), fifty-two 'anaacheerna' (improper actions), and eighteen 'aachaar sthana' (principles of conduct).
  - Aahaar Charya Vishayak (Food-related practices): Not detailed in this excerpt.
  - Dainik Charya Vishayak (Daily routines): Not detailed in this excerpt.
Historical Context of Shramanaachaar:
- Mentions that while the core rules of monastic conduct have remained consistent since the time of Lord Mahavira, certain rules have undergone changes due to the Sanghata (community structure), region, time, and circumstances.
- Highlights that Sadhvi Saumyagunashreeji's extensive research on Jain legal provisions, particularly in the second part of her dissertation, sheds light on Shramanaachaar, discussing the minute aspects of monastic life. This aims to educate the general public about Shramana life, promoting its impeccable observance.
Appreciations and Blessings:
- Several respected Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and Mahatara bestow their blessings and appreciation for this monumental work. They praise the author's dedication, scholarly rigor, and the book's contribution to Jain literature and understanding of monastic discipline.
- The scholars emphasize the importance of preserving and disseminating the intricacies of Jain conduct rules for the benefit of current and future generations, helping to dispel misconceptions and promote authentic practice.
Detailed Content of Chapters (as per the provided table of contents): The text provides a detailed chapter breakdown of the entire research, indicating the vast scope of the work. Chapter 1, as presented here, focuses specifically on the "Nature of the Shramana and its Various Aspects," covering:
- Meaning of the word "Shramana"
- Synonyms for Shramana
- Types of Shramana (e.g., Jinakalpi, Sthavirakalpi)
- Significance of Shramana life
- Qualities of an ideal Shramana
- 70 basic virtues for a Shramana
- Relevance of Charana Sattari in modern times
- 70 subsequent virtues for a Shramana
- Relevance of Karana Sattari in modern times
- Daily routine of a Jain Shramana
- Uggada Paurushi Vidhi
- Seasonal conduct of Shramana
- Essential components of Shramana Charya
- Essential teachings for Shramana life
- Classical reasons for the distinction between Shramana and Shravaka.

In essence, this initial section of the book establishes the profound importance and meticulous detail involved in the study of Jain monastic discipline, setting the stage for a deep exploration of each aspect of Shramanaachaar in subsequent volumes. The work is presented as a significant contribution to Jain scholarship, aiming to illuminate the rigorous path of asceticism for a wider audience.