Jain Pathavali Part 03 - Book Summary

The provided text is "Jain Pathavali Part 03," published by the Trilokratna Sthanakwasi Jain Dharmik Pariksha Board, Ahmednagar. This book is part of a series designed for Jain religious education, aiming to impart knowledge of Jain principles and philosophy to children and students.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the content, based on the provided pages:

Overall Purpose and Structure:

Educational Series: The "Jain Pathavali" is a seven-part series intended for sequential religious education in Jain schools, hostels, and educational institutions.
Target Audience: The primary goal is to provide a simple and accessible understanding of Jain culture and philosophy.
Content Organization: The book is structured into various sections, including theoretical discussions, narratives (stories of saints and pious individuals), and poetry/prayers.

Key Sections and Concepts:

"Aavashyak" (Essential Duties):
- The book begins by explaining the concept of "Aavashyak" in Jainism, which refers to six essential daily religious duties.
- These six Aavashyaks are detailed:
  - Samayik: Cultivating equanimity and concentration of mind.
  - Chaturvinshti-stotra (Chauvis-thavo): Praising the 24 Tirthankaras.
  - Vandana: Showing respect and humility, typically to spiritual guides.
  - Pratikraman: A process of introspection and repentance for past faults. It's described as "turning back" from wrong paths.
  - Kayotsarg: Renouncing the attachment to the body and engaging in spiritual meditation.
  - Pratyakhyan (Pachakkhan): Making vows and rules for abstaining from certain actions or objects.
- The importance of performing these duties regularly, ideally twice a day (morning and evening), is emphasized. Different types of Pratikraman (Paakshik, Chaturmasik, Saavatsarik) are also mentioned.
First Aavashyak - Samayik:
- This section elaborates on Samayik, highlighting its importance for purifying the mind and fostering positive feelings like compassion and love. It suggests dedicating at least 48 minutes (two "ghadi") for Samayik.
- It outlines the procedural steps when starting Pratikraman, which includes requesting permission, performing Vandana, and reciting specific preparatory texts.
Texts for Samayik/Pratikraman:
- "Ichhami Na Bante": This section provides the Hindi translation and meaning of a key prayer used to seek permission from the spiritual guide for performing the day's Pratikraman and Kayotsarg. It explains the significance of contemplation on the faults related to knowledge (Gyana), perception (Darshana), conduct (Charitra), and austerities (Tapa).
- "Ichhami Thaidum Kayotsargam": This is another prayer for initiating Kayotsarg, specifically for self-reflection and confession of faults committed during the day (Devasik).
- "Tas Uttari": Mentioned as a text to be recited after seeking permission and before Kayotsarg, which involves contemplating 99 types of transgressions (Aticharas).
Second and Third Aavashyak:
- Chaturvinshti-stotra: Reiterates the praise of the 24 Tirthankaras as the second essential duty.
- Vandana: Explains the third essential duty, which involves showing reverence to spiritual teachers (gurus) and seeking forgiveness for any disrespect or offense caused, whether through thought, word, or deed. The prayer "Ichhami Khama-samano" is provided with its meaning, emphasizing humility and seeking forgiveness.
Understanding Transgressions (Aticharas):
- This section introduces the concept of "Atichara," which means faults, errors, or deviations from vows.
- It explains that Aticharas occur in four stages: Atikram (intention to break a vow), Vyatikram (gathering means to break a vow), Atichara (breaking a vow physically), and Anachar (completely breaking a vow).
- The book states that knowledge has 14 Aticharas, perception has 5, austerities have 5, and conduct has 75, totaling 99 Aticharas that are contemplated during Kayotsarg.
Fourth Aavashyak - Pratikraman:
- This section formally begins the explanation of Pratikraman, emphasizing the need to seek permission before commencing.
- It discusses the importance of knowledge, explaining the five types of knowledge: Mati-gyana, Shruta-gyana, Avadhi-gyana, Mana-paryay-gyana, and Kevala-gyana. It also distinguishes between right knowledge (Samyak-gyana) and wrong knowledge (Mithya-gyana).
"Darshana-Samyaktva Ka Arth" (Meaning of Darshana-Samyaktva):
- This section defines Darshana (perception or faith) and Samyaktva (right faith). It highlights the importance of true faith in the Arhats (Tirthankaras), true gurus (saints), and the teachings of the omniscient (Jina-pannatto Dharma).
- It outlines the five Aticharas of Samyaktva: Shanka (doubt), Kanksha (desire for other doctrines), Vichikitsa (dislike or finding fault with religious practices), Paramapashanda-prasamsa (praising false ascetics), and Paramapashanda-samstava (association with false ascetics).
- The prayer "Darshana Samyaktva" is provided with its meaning and explanations for laypeople (Shravak/Shravika).
Charitra (Conduct/Right Conduct):
- This section defines Charitra as remaining absorbed in one's true self, achieved by destroying passions like attachment and aversion, and maintaining stability in mind, speech, and body.
- It details the five types of Charitra: Samayika, Chedopasthapaniya, Parihar-shuddhi, Sukshma-samparaya, and Yatha-khyata Charitra.
Five Conducts (Aachars):
- The text explains that knowledge, perception, conduct, austerities, and energy (Virya) are the five Aachars in Jainism.
- It elaborates on:
  - Gyana-achar: Practices that lead to the destruction of karma and attainment of self-knowledge, adhering to eight rules.
  - Darshana-achar: Practices that destroy deluded beliefs and lead to right faith, also with eight rules.
  - Charitra-achar: Practices related to the pacification of passions and the observance of vows, including five Samitis and three Guptis. These eight are also called "Pravachanamata" (mothers of Jain conduct).
  - Five Samitis: Ir'ya (careful movement), Bhasha (careful speech), Eshan'a (careful alms-seeking), Adan-nikshepan (careful handling of objects), and Pratishthapana (careful disposal of waste).
  - Three Guptis: Mana-gupti (control of mind), Vachan-gupti (control of speech), and Kaya-gupti (control of body).
Tapa-achar (Austerities):
- This section describes austerities as a means to control desires, strengthen the body, senses, and mind, and develop spiritual strength.
- It outlines the two types of austerities:
  - Bahya Tapa (External Austerities): Six types, including Anashana (fasting), Unodari (eating less), Vritti-samkshep (limiting intake), Ras-parityag (abstaining from desirable foods), Kaya-lesh (physical hardship), and Vivikta-shaiya-asana (seclusion).
  - Abhyantara Tapa (Internal Austerities): Six types, including Prayashchitta (penance), Vinaya (humility), Vaiyavritta (service), Swadhyaya (study), Kayotsarg (meditation), and Dhyana (meditation).
Third Step of Sadhana - Charitra and its Rules:
- This section revisits Charitra, emphasizing its goal of attaining equanimity and self-absorption.
- It explains the distinction between the vows of ascetics (Mahavratas) and lay followers (Anuvratas) based on the extent of renunciation and limitations in daily life.
- Mahavratas: Complete renunciation of violence, falsehood, theft, illicit sexual conduct, and possession.
- Anuvratas (Twelve): Limited vows for laypeople, including five principal vows (the five Anuvratas mentioned above in a less strict form) and seven additional vows (which include controls on directions, use of consumables, unnecessary actions, Samayika, spatial limitations, periodical fasting, and charitable distribution).
- It emphasizes the importance of being "shalya-rahita" (free from the three impurities: Maya/deceit, Nidana/desire for results, and Mithyatva/wrong faith) to become a true vow-holder.
First Anuvrata - Thool Pranati-paat Viraman (Abstinence from Gross Violence):
- This section discusses the principle of Ahimsa (non-violence) and its importance. It clarifies that while all living beings are equal, householders are allowed some unavoidable, limited violence (e.g., to stationary life forms) due to essential activities like farming, but with proper mindfulness (Yatna). It criticizes violence born from passion, greed, or pleasure.
- It details the five Aticharas of this vow: Bandh (binding), Vadh (killing), Chhedan (cutting/mutilation), Atibhaar (overburdening), and Bhakta-paan-viched (depriving of food/water).
Second Anuvrata - Thool Musavada Viraman (Abstinence from Gross Falsehood):
- This section explains the vow against falsehood, covering various forms like lying, slander, revealing secrets, and false testimony.
- It details the five Aticharas: Sahasa-vyakhyan (hasty falsehood), Rahasya-vyakhyan (revealing secrets), Sudara-mantra (revealing spouse's or friend's secret), Motu-updesh (giving bad advice), and Kood-lekh-karan (writing false documents).
Third Anuvrata - Thool Adattadan Viraman (Abstinence from Gross Stealing):
- This section defines stealing and emphasizes the importance of taking only what is given or rightfully owned. It covers indirect forms of theft like dishonest trade and appropriation of trusts.
- It lists the five Aticharas: Stenahrit (taking stolen goods), Takkar-prayog (abetting thieves), Viruddha-rajya-atikram (breaking laws regarding trade), Kood-tul-kuman (dishonest weights and measures), and Tat-pratirupak-vyavahar (dealing in counterfeit goods).
Fourth Anuvrata - Brahmacharya (Celibacy/Chastity):
- This section defines Brahmacharya as control over all senses, especially sexual desire, and adherence to chastity.
- It distinguishes between the complete celibacy of ascetics and the regulated chastity (Swa-stri Santosh - contentment with one's own wife) for householders. It stresses that even within marriage, maintaining purity of thought and avoiding excessive indulgence is crucial.
- It lists the five Aticharas: Itthirya-parigrahia-agaman (sexual relations with a wife who is too young), Aparigrahia-agaman (illicit relations), Ananga-krida (perverse sexual practices), Parivivaha-karan (remarrying or facilitating remarriage), and Kama-bhoga-tivra-abilasa (excessive desire for sensual pleasures).
Fifth Anuvrata - Thool Parigraha Viraman (Abstinence from Gross Accumulation):
- This section explains the vow of limiting possessions and desires for material wealth.
- It specifies the limitations on nine types of possessions: land, houses, silver and gold, money, grains, two-footed beings (humans, birds), four-footed beings (animals), copper, brass, etc., and other household items.
- It lists the five Aticharas: Kshetra-vastu-pramanatikram (exceeding limits on land/property), Hiranya-suvarna-pramanatikram (exceeding limits on gold/silver), Dhana-dhanya-pramanatikram (exceeding limits on wealth/grains), Dvipa-chatuṣpada-pramanatikram (exceeding limits on dependents/animals), and Kudviya-pramanatikram (exceeding limits on utensils/household items).
Tattva Vibhag (Discussion of Principles):
- This section delves into the fundamental principles of Jainism.
- Ajiva Tattva: Briefly mentions the non-living entities (Pudgala, Dharma, Adharma, Akash, Kala) covered in previous parts.
- Pun'ya Tattva (Merit) and Paap Tattva (Demerit):
  - Defines Pun'ya as auspicious actions and Paap as inauspicious actions.
  - Emphasizes that true Pun'ya is associated with ethical conduct, honesty, compassion, and selfless service, not just wealth accumulation.
  - Explains that actions driven by selfishness, greed, or harmful intentions lead to Paap.
  - Discusses the role of donations (Daan) and the importance of giving to worthy recipients (Mupatra) for spiritual progress.
  - Highlights the nine types of Pun'ya and the fruits of Pun'ya and Paap.
- Asrava Tattva (Influx of Karma):
  - Explains Asrava as the inflow of karmic particles into the soul due to passions and activities.
  - Differentiates between auspicious Asrava (Pun'ya) and inauspicious Asrava (Paap).
  - Lists various causes of Asrava, including ignorance, violation of vows, passions (Kashayas), lack of control over senses, and specific actions.
- Samvara Tattva (Stoppage of Karma):
  - Defines Samvara as the act of preventing the inflow of new karma. This is achieved through controlling the senses, mind, speech, and body, and adhering to Jain practices.
  - Mentions the five Samitis, three Guptis, 22 types of hardships (Parishaha), ten Yati-dharma, twelve Bhavanas (reflections), and the five Charitras as means to achieve Samvara.
- Nirjara Tattva (Shedding of Karma):
  - Explains Nirjara as the process of shedding or eradicating accumulated karma. This is achieved through austerities (Tapa) and selfless devotion.
  - Distinguishes between Akama Nirjara (unintentional shedding) and Sakama Nirjara (intentional shedding through knowledge and austerities).
- Bandha Tattva (Bondage of Karma):
  - Details how karma binds the soul, causing the cycle of birth and death.
  - Explains the four types of Bandha: Prakriti (nature of karma), Sthiti (duration), Anubhava (intensity of experience), and Pradesha (extent of bondage).
  - Describes the eight types of karma: Gyana-avaraniya, Darshana-avaraniya, Vedaniya, Mohaniya, Ayushya, Nama, Gotra, and Antaraya, and their effects.
- Moksha Tattva (Liberation):
  - Defines Moksha as the state of freedom from all karmic bondage, leading to the soul's innate omniscience, bliss, and eternal existence.
  - Explains that liberation is achieved by eradicating all karmas, both Ghata (destructive) and Aghata (non-destructive).
  - The soul, in its liberated state, resides at the apex of the universe (Siddhashila) in a state of pure consciousness.
- Jain Philosophy and Ishwarvaad (Theism):
  - The text clarifies that Jainism does not believe in a creator God (Ishwar) who creates or manages the universe.
  - It emphasizes that the universe functions according to its inherent nature and the law of karma.
  - While not a creator, the liberated souls (Siddhas) are revered as ideals and are free from worldly suffering and karmic bondage. The path to becoming like them through self-effort and adherence to Jain principles is the core of the philosophy.
Katha Vibhag (Stories):
- This section contains biographical accounts of significant Jain figures, highlighting their virtues, trials, and spiritual journeys. These include:
  - Sati Chandanbala: Her story of overcoming hardship, persecution, and maintaining chastity and devotion to Lord Mahavir.
  - Sati Draupadi: Her steadfastness and virtue despite being married to five Pandavas and facing severe humiliation.
  - Sati Damayanti: Her unwavering devotion to King Nala through all their adversies.
  - Subahu Kumar: His renunciation of worldly pleasures and his family for spiritual pursuits, inspired by Lord Mahavir.
  - Sthulabhadra: His transformation from a disciple of a courtesan to a great Jain monk, overcoming worldly temptations.
  - Nem-Rajul: The story of Lord Neminatha's renunciation of marriage and his spiritual path, and Rajul's devotion and eventual spiritual attainment.
  - Veer Dhanna: His inherent business acumen and philanthropic activities, as well as his eventual renunciation of wealth and worldly life.
  - Samabhavi Muni Metarya: His exemplary equanimity and endurance of extreme suffering for the sake of a bird, leading to his spiritual liberation.
  - Shrenik: The story of King Shrenik's rise to power, his devotion to Jainism influenced by Queen Chellana, and his role as a patron.
  - Nandan Maniar: A story illustrating the consequences of attachment and desire for fame, leading to rebirth as a frog, and eventual liberation through devotion and understanding.
  - Jambu Swami: His renunciation of wealth, marriage, and worldly life to become a disciple of Lord Mahavir, and his eventual attainment of Kevala-gyana (omniscience).
  - Samrat Samprati: His conversion to Jainism, his patronage of Jain principles, and his efforts in spreading dharma.
  - Sati Subhadra: Her story of purity and virtue facing false accusations and her steadfastness in upholding her integrity.
  - Shailak Rishi: His spiritual journey from a king to an ascetic, overcoming temptations and demonstrating exemplary devotion to his guru.
  - Gajsukumar: His attainment of Kevala-gyana through meditation, even while enduring severe physical torment inflicted by an enemy.
Kavya Vibhag (Poetry):
- This section contains devotional poems and prayers.
  - Pratah Prarthana (Morning Prayer): A Shikharini meter poem addressing the Divine as the ultimate refuge, guide, and source of joy.
  - Prabhu ka Naam-Rasayan (The Elixir of the Lord's Name): A poem emphasizing the importance of chanting the Lord's name and adhering to ethical principles (like avoiding falsehood, slander, pride, and bad habits) for spiritual well-being.
  - Paanch Indriyon Ke Vishay (The Objects of the Five Senses): Poems illustrating how attachment to sensory pleasures (touch, taste, smell, sight, sound) can lead to destruction, using examples of animals.
  - Rag-Maadh (Praise of Prabhu Mahavir): A devotional hymn praising Lord Mahavir, his teachings, and the path to liberation.
  - Dekho Re Dekho Re Jaino (Look, O Jains!): A song that highlights the exemplary lives of various Jain saints and devotees who achieved spiritual liberation through their vows and perseverance.
  - Bhavana (Reflections/Meditations): A set of nine reflective verses guiding the reader on ethical conduct, spiritual discipline, and the pursuit of peace and well-being for all beings.
  - Dhun (Melody/Chant): Short devotional phrases.
  - Meri Bhavana (My Feelings): A longer, comprehensive reflection on cultivating inner peace, compassion, devotion, and right conduct.

In essence, "Jain Pathavali Part 03" serves as a foundational text for Jain religious education, systematically explaining core concepts, providing inspiring narratives of spiritual exemplars, and offering devotional poetry to foster faith and practice.