Kriyasara - Book Summary | JainGPT

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Kriyasara," based on the text you shared:

Book Title: Kriyasara (क्रियासार) Author(s): Acharya Bhadrabahuswami (First mentioned as the original author), Upadhyay Muni 108 Shri Surdev Sagar (as commentator and editor). Publisher: Sandip Shah, Jaipur Publication Year: First Edition 1996-97

Overall Purpose and Meaning of "Kriyasara":

The title "Kriyasara" is a compound of "Kriya" (क्रिया) and "Sara" (सार). "Kriya" broadly means action or deed, but in the context of Jain scriptures, it specifically refers to scriptural observances and religious practices. "Sara" means essence, core, or the best. Therefore, "Kriyasara" signifies the essence of religious practices, particularly those that are essential and superior for achieving ultimate liberation, as per the Jinagamas (Jain scriptures). The text emphasizes Samyama (संयम - restraint, self-control, discipline) as the core essence of these practices, leading to ultimate happiness.

Key Sections and Content:

The text is structured with a detailed introduction covering various aspects of the book and its context.

Introduction (Prastavana - प्रस्तावना):
- Book Name and Significance: As explained above, "Kriyasara" highlights the essential nature of religious practices, primarily Samyama.
- Author(s): Acharya Bhadrabahuswami is credited as the original author, and Upadhyay Muni 108 Shri Surdev Sagar as the commentator and editor. Acharya Guptigupta is mentioned as the compiler of this 80-gatha ancient text for the benefit of the four-fold Jain community (monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen).
- Preceding, Succeeding, and Modern Traditions: The text traces the lineage of Jain scholars and Acharyas, starting from Lord Mahavir's disciples, through the Shruta-Kevlis (monks with complete knowledge of scriptures), and then detailing various monastic lineages (Sanghas and Gachhas) and their important Acharyas, emphasizing the continuation of the tradition up to modern times. This section is extensive, listing numerous Acharyas and their periods.
- Subject Matter of Kriyasara: The book's core subject is Samyama (संयम), elaborating on its various types (Vyavahar Samyama - conventional, and Nishchay Samyama - actual/spiritual).
- Topics Covered: The text details the establishment of Samyama and Suri-pad (सूरि पद - the title of an Acharya). It covers the qualifications for initiation and the position of an Acharya, the process of initiation, the importance of auspicious timings, rituals, and the acceptance of disciples from other monastic orders. It also discusses the characteristics of a suitable Acharya, the ceremony of installation, and the importance of adhering to established practices.
- Objective: To ensure the continuous and unobstructed growth of Jain initiation (Diksha) and the proper observance of all necessary rituals during the granting and receiving of Diksha and installation of Suris, to prevent decline or harm to the Samyama, the order, and the disciples.
- Necessity: The text highlights the loss incurred by the Jain order, religion, and spiritual aspirants if essential practices are neglected or performed improperly.
- Chronology: Based on evidence, Acharya Bhadrabahuswami's period is estimated to be around 35 years before the Common Era. Acharya Guptigupta, his disciple, is believed to have lived around the 1st century CE, correlating with the 6th-7th century CE of Lord Mahavir's Nirvana.
Detailed Explanation of Samyama (संयम):
- Definition: Samyama is defined as proper control and restraint, encompassing control over speech, action, and mind, along with physical restraint (Dravya Samyama) and mental restraint (Bhava Samyama).
- Types of Samyama:
  - Vyavahar Samyama (व्यवहार संयम): This refers to the outward practice of vows (Panch Mahavratas), adherence to the five conduct guidelines (Panch Samitis), control of the three restraints (Trigupti), victory over passions (Kashayas), control of senses (Indriyas), and renunciation of external possessions. It is considered a meritorious action.
  - Nishchay Samyama (निश्चय संयम): This is the direct realization of the pure self, achieved by refraining from harming any living being, detaching from sensory pleasures, and merging with the pure form of the soul. It's described as the attainment of the pure self by the inactive soul.
- Classification: Samyama is also classified based on control over entire countries (Sampurna Desh), specific regions (Vikal Desh), living beings (Prani), and senses (Indriya). It is also divided into Sagara (with possessions) and Anagara (without possessions).
The Text's Content and Rituals:
- Structure: The text is composed of 80 verses (Gathas).
- Initiation Process: It outlines the qualifications for a disciple, the process of Diksha (initiation), including the necessary rituals, auspicious timings (tithi, day, nakshatra, yoga, lagna), the selection of suitable places, and purification rites.
- Acceptance of Disciples from Other Orders (Paragana): The text details how a disciple from another monastic order can be accepted. This involves a thorough observation of their conduct and character by the Acharya and the community, followed by a formal acceptance and naming ceremony.
- Acharya Installation: The text describes the meticulous process of installing an Acharya, including the selection of suitable muhurtas (auspicious times), the arrangement of the mandap (ritualistic enclosure), the drawing of the Ganadhar Valaya (a sacred diagram), and the specific offerings and prayers. The role of the community (Chaturvidh Sangh) in this process is highlighted.
- Criteria for Acharya: An Acharya should be pure in lineage, virtuous, learned, detached from worldly desires, and capable of guiding the Sangha.
- Astrology in Diksha: A significant portion of the text discusses astrological considerations for determining the suitability of the time for initiation. It details the auspiciousness of planets, their positions in different houses (Bhavas), Nakshatras, Tithis, and the avoidance of inauspicious times and events (like eclipses, earthquakes, etc.).
- Behavioral Guidelines: The text provides guidelines for conduct during the initiation process, emphasizing proper etiquette, reverence for the Guru, and the importance of following the prescribed rituals. It also describes what constitutes conduct outside the Sangha (Sangha Bahya) and the consequences thereof.
- Types of Diksha: The text briefly touches upon the differences between Mahavrata Diksha (for ascetics) and lesser forms of initiation (like Kshullak Diksha).
- Conclusion: The text concludes by emphasizing the merit of performing these rituals correctly and the blessings received by those who uphold these practices.

Key Principles and Emphasis:

Samyama as the Essence: The paramount importance of Samyama (self-control and restraint) as the core of Jain spiritual practice is consistently emphasized.
Importance of Rituals and Timings: The text stresses the significance of performing religious rites and ceremonies at auspicious times and following them meticulously.
Lineage and Authority: The text places importance on the continuity of the Jain tradition through respected Acharyas and monastic lineages.
Community Involvement: The Chaturvidh Sangh (monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen) plays a crucial role in the initiation and installation processes, signifying communal participation and approval.
Purity and Qualifications: Strict criteria are laid down for both the disciple (Dikshaarthi) and the Guru (Acharya) to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of the spiritual path.
Ethical Conduct: The text provides guidance on proper conduct, the avoidance of transgressions, and the importance of humility and respect within the monastic community.

In essence, "Kriyasara" serves as a practical guide for establishing and maintaining the fundamental principles and practices of Jain monasticism, particularly focusing on the establishment of the Acharya's authority and the proper initiation of disciples into the path of Samyama.