Kadve Such

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Kadve Such" (Bitter Truths) by Suvandyasagar, based on the provided text:

Title: Kadve Such (Bitter Truths) Author: Nirgranth Muni Suvandysagar Publisher: Atmanandi Granthalaya Edition: 11th (Revised and Enlarged) Year: 2013

Overview:

"Kadve Such" is a significant Jain text compiled by Muni Suvandysagar, a disciple of Acharya Suvidhisagarji Maharaj. The book aims to present the unadulterated, often challenging, truths found in Jain scriptures, particularly concerning the conduct of monks (munis) and the duties of householders (shravaks). Muni Suvandysagar, having experienced the harsh realities and deviations from scriptural norms, compiled these "bitter truths" to dispel ignorance, correct misconceptions, and re-establish the pristine standards of Jain monasticism as laid down in ancient texts. The work draws extensively from over two hundred ancient and modern Jain scriptures.

Core Message and Objectives:

The primary objective of "Kadve Such" is to:

• Reaffirm Scriptural Authority: Emphasize the supreme importance of the Jain Agamas (scriptures) and the necessity of adhering to their teachings without deviation, regardless of the era (like the current 'Pancham Kaal').
• Correct Monastic Deviations: Highlight and critique practices among some contemporary monks that are contrary to the strict, non-possessive (nirgrantha) ideals prescribed in scriptures, such as the acceptance of modern conveniences like napkins, mobile phones, computers, vehicles, and unnecessary grooming practices.
• Educate Householders: Guide householders on their true religious duties, particularly in the context of offering ahardaan (food donation) and vaiyavrittya (service to monks), emphasizing the importance of offering pure, scripturally appropriate items and discouraging "bad donations" (kukraan) that support deviation.
• Distinguish True Gurus from False Ones: Provide clear criteria for identifying genuine, scripturally-aligned monks versus those who are merely in monk's guise (kulangi, bogue Bhagat) or driven by worldly desires (arthatma, vitashatru).
• Promote Right Conduct: Encourage both monks and householders to return to the path of righteousness, detachment, and self-realization as taught by Lord Mahavir and the Tirthankaras.
• Address Societal Decline: Lament the decline in Jain values and practices due to a lack of scriptural knowledge and the influence of materialism, and call for a revival of true Jain principles.

Key Themes and Chapters (as indicated by the index):

The book covers a wide range of topics critical to Jain practice, often presenting them in a direct, "bitter truth" style:

• Introduction (Aamukh): Setting the stage for the book's purpose and the reasons for its creation.
• Eternal Religion (Shashwat Dharma): Emphasizing the unchanging nature of the Jain path and the principles of monasticism.
• Where is the Mistake? (Bhool Kaha?): Identifying the sources of deviation from scriptural norms.
• True Guru (Sadguru): Defining the characteristics of a genuine spiritual guide.
• Alternatives (Vikalp): Discussing choices and deviations in practice.
• Glory of the Ascetic (Tyagi ki Shobha): Detailing the true beauty and conduct of a renunciate.
• Enemies of the Jain Order (Namostu Shaasan ke Shatru): Identifying factors and individuals detrimental to the Jain faith.
• Towards Division (Vibhajan ki Ore): Addressing the schisms and internal conflicts within the Jain community.
• Who is Responsible? (Zimmedar Kaun?): Assigning responsibility for the current state of affairs.
• Questions (Prashn) and Solutions (Upay): Presenting common doubts and providing scriptural answers.
• Stabilization (Sthitikaran): The importance of maintaining and restoring correct practices.
• Householders Can Also Explain (Grihasta bhi samjha sakte hain): The role of householders in upholding truth.
• Decision of Truth and Untruth (Satyasaty ka Nirnay): Distinguishing genuine practices from false ones.
• Consequences of Serving False Gurus (Kuguru-Seva ka Parinam): The negative outcomes of following erroneous guides.
• Silence is Half-Consent (Maun Ardhsammati): The implication of not speaking out against wrongdoings.
• Why the Need for Refutation? (Khandan ki Avashyakta Kyon?): Justifying the critique of incorrect practices.
• Duty of Agama Lovers (Aagampremino ka Kartavya): The responsibilities of those devoted to scriptures.
• Fruit of Agama-Following Conduct (Aagamanusari Aacharan ka Phal): The benefits of adhering to scriptural paths.
• Distress and Warning (Vidambana aur Chetavani): Highlighting unfortunate situations and issuing warnings.
• Who is a Monk? (Sadhu Kaun?): Defining true monasticism.
• Distress (Vidambana): Lamenting the state of affairs.
• Matter of Sorrow (Dukh ki Baat): Expressing sadness over deviations.
• Fruit of Bad Donation (Kupatra daan ka Phal): The results of giving to undeserving recipients.
• Warning to Donors (Daata ko Chetavani): Advice for those offering donations.
• Attachment (Parigraha): Discussing the sin of possession.
  • What is Asceticism? (Kya hai Achelkyam?)
  • To not break devotees' hearts.
  • The fruit of attachment - hellish existence.
  • Attachment arises from possessiveness.
  • The path of exceptions is not license.
  • Utensils, napkins, spectacles, watches.
• Stone Boat (Patthar ki Naav): An analogy for those who are stuck in wrong practices.
• Food (Aahar): Examining monastic food practices.
  • Food conduct.
  • Importance of pure food conduct.
  • Gestures during meals.
  • Cold water, tooth powder.
  • Prasad.
  • How many times to eat?
  • In exchange for food.
• Miscellaneous (Prakirnak): Covering various other points like bathing, oil massage, hair plucking, fasting, family and institutions, real enemies of Dharma, business advice, area development, joy journeys, fake devotees, birthdays, interfaith conferences, newspapers, travel, marriage, monks giving initiation, monks in Pancham Kaal, what the scriptures say, identification of monks, basis of worship, behavior with worldly monks, duties of householders, charity, etc.

Author's Motivation and Approach:

Muni Suvandysagar's motivation stems from his deep concern for the Jain Dharma, which he sees as being tarnished by a lack of adherence to ancient scriptures by some monks and a lack of proper understanding by householders. He firmly believes in upholding the original, unadulterated teachings of the Tirthankaras. His approach is direct and critical, using the term "bitter truths" to signify the necessity of confronting uncomfortable realities to bring about positive change. He quotes extensively from authoritative texts to lend weight to his arguments.

Key Criticisms and Recommendations:

The book strongly criticizes:

• Monks accepting modern conveniences: Mobile phones, laptops, vehicles, napkins, watches, spectacles, etc., are considered violations of aparigraha (non-possession).
• Luxury and comfort-seeking monks: Monks who indulge in special arrangements for food, oil massages, or other comforts are seen as deviating from the path of renunciation.
• Misinterpretation of vaiyavrittya: The author clarifies that true service to monks is to help them uphold their vows, not to enable their deviations.
• Householders supporting deviations: Those who offer items contrary to scriptural guidelines or who insist on such offerings to please monks are criticized for contributing to the decline.
• Misuse of "apavada marg" (exceptionary path): The author clarifies that exceptions are for upholding the core vows, not for personal indulgence.
• Commercialization of Dharma: Practices like selling photos, organizing paid events, or using Dharma for personal gain are condemned.
• Misguided beliefs: Superstitions like astrology, planetary remedies, and appeasing deities are debunked as contrary to true Jain philosophy.
• Blind faith and lack of discernment: The book urges followers to critically examine the conduct of monks and not to blindly accept those who deviate from scriptures, even if they are popular or influential.
• Mistaking outward appearance for inner substance: The text differentiates between a true monk (nirgrantha) and someone merely wearing the monk's attire (kulangi) without the inner detachment.

Overall Significance:

"Kadve Such" serves as a powerful reminder of the strictness and purity of the Jain monastic path. It is a call to action for the Jain community to return to the foundational principles of the faith, ensuring its integrity and spiritual efficacy for generations to come. The book is a testament to Muni Suvandysagar's dedication to preserving and propagating the true spirit of Jainism.