Jainachar Ek Vivechan - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, "Jainachar Ek Vivechan" (A Discussion on Jain Conduct), authored by Rajendramuni:

The book "Jainachar Ek Vivechan" by Rajendramuni delves into the fundamental principles of Jain conduct, emphasizing the pursuit of true happiness and the eradication of suffering. The central theme revolves around understanding the nature of true happiness and its relationship with suffering, which is a pervasive reality in worldly life.

The Nature of Happiness and Suffering:

True Happiness is Internal: The text asserts that true happiness originates from within the soul and is not dependent on external objects or material possessions.
Worldly Pleasures are Illusory: Happiness derived from external objects, wealth, possessions, or sensory gratification is considered superficial, fleeting, and ultimately leads to suffering. These are described as mere shadows or fleeting sensations, not true happiness.
Desire as the Root of Suffering: The primary cause of suffering is identified as insatiable desire and attachment. The continuous pursuit of more, even after fulfilling a desire, leads to restlessness, dissatisfaction, and ultimately, misery.
Suffering is Inevitable in Worldly Life: The text acknowledges that suffering is an intrinsic part of worldly existence, affecting everyone irrespective of their material possessions. It can stem from lack, disease, loss, and anxieties.
The Goal of Jainism: Eradication of Suffering: The ultimate aim of Jain conduct (achara) is to achieve the cessation of suffering and attain everlasting, supreme happiness.

The Role of Dharma (Conduct):

Dharma as the Means to True Happiness: Dharma is presented as the most potent and capable means to achieve true happiness. While other pursuits like Artha (wealth) and Kama (desire) are mentioned in Indian culture for worldly pleasures, Dharma is prioritized as it leads to lasting bliss.
Karma Bandhan (Bondage of Karma): Jainism identifies "karma bandhan" (the bondage of karmas) as the root cause of suffering in the cycle of birth and death. The weakening and eradication of these karmas lead to true and supreme happiness.
Dharma as a Liberator: Dharma is described as the path that liberates beings from worldly suffering and guides them towards supreme happiness.

The Path to Moksha (Liberation):

The book outlines the Jain path to liberation (Moksha), which is the ultimate state of eternal happiness, free from all suffering. This path is primarily guided by three core principles, collectively known as Tattva Traya or the Three Jewels:

Samyagdarshan (Right Faith/Perception):
- Self-Realization: The first and most crucial step is to understand oneself – to recognize the soul (Atma) as distinct from the body and other external elements.
- Discernment: Developing the ability to differentiate between truth and falsehood is essential.
- Unwavering Faith: Believing firmly in the soul as the only true possession and that all other things are external and transient is vital. This faith helps in detaching from worldly possessions and karmic impurities.
- Renunciation of Desires (Nishkamata): Abandoning all desires for worldly pleasures and possessions is necessary.
- Rejection of Gloom (Glanibhav Nishedh): Not to feel dejected or scornful towards those in unfortunate circumstances, understanding that current situations are a result of past actions.
- Non-Support of Wrongdoing: Refraining from supporting or praising evil deeds and individuals.
- Promotion of Righteousness: Actively encouraging and spreading righteous conduct, defending it when criticized.
- Strengthening the Path: Encouraging oneself and others to remain steadfast on the path of righteousness.
- Love for Fellow Religious Practitioners: Developing deep affection and respect for those who follow the same path, fostering a positive environment.
- Spreading the True Dharma: Dispelling ignorance and spreading the principles of the pure, non-violent Jain dharma.
Samyagjnana (Right Knowledge):
- This involves a clear and accurate understanding of the self, the nature of reality, karma, and the path to liberation. It is the knowledge that complements right faith.
Samyakcharitra (Right Conduct):
- The Essence of Jainism: Right conduct is the practical application of right faith and right knowledge in one's daily life. It is the sum total of an individual's activities.
- Control over Mind, Speech, and Body: All actions, thoughts, and words are encompassed within conduct. The focus is on aligning these with virtue.
- Two Types of Conduct:
  - Pravritti-mulak Charitra (Active Conduct): Engaging in virtuous actions like wishing well for others, speaking sweetly, and acting kindly.
  - Nivritti-mulak Charitra (Conduct of Abstinence): Refraining from harmful actions, negative thoughts, and unethical behavior.
- The Five Great Vows (Mahavratas): The foundation of Jain conduct is the observance of:
  - Ahimsa (Non-violence): The paramount principle, encompassing non-violence in thought, word, and deed.
  - Satya (Truthfulness): Speaking the truth, but only that which is beneficial and not harmful.
  - Achaurya (Non-stealing): Not taking what does not belong to oneself.
  - Brahmacharya (Celibacy/Chastity): Control over sensual desires.
  - Aparigraha (Non-possession/Non-attachment): Detachment from material possessions and worldly attachments.
- Intent Matters: The intention behind an action is crucial in determining its virtue or vice. Even actions that appear superficially negative, if performed with a righteous intention (like surgery by a doctor), are not considered bad. Conversely, outwardly pleasant actions with a malicious intent are considered negative.
- The Importance of Both Activity and Abstinence: While abstinence is highly praised for its role in achieving lasting happiness, virtuous activity is also essential. The two are complementary.

Conclusion:

The book emphasizes that achieving true happiness and liberation requires a profound understanding and consistent practice of Jain conduct. It's a journey that begins with right perception, is guided by right knowledge, and is realized through right conduct, ultimately leading to the cessation of suffering and the attainment of eternal bliss. The author stresses that the pursuit of fleeting, external pleasures is a distraction from this ultimate goal.