Mahavir Swamino Sanyam Dharm - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Mahavir swamino Sanyam Dharm," authored by Gopaldas Jivabhai Patel and published by Jain Sahitya Prakashan Mandir. The book is a Gujarati translation and interpretation of the Jain Agam scripture, Sutrakritanga.

The book aims to present the essence of the Sutrakritanga in a style accessible to contemporary readers while faithfully preserving the original text's core message. The editor acknowledges the ancient nature of the scripture and the need for stylistic adaptations to make it relevant today.

Key Themes and Content:

The book, "Mahavir swamino Sanyam Dharm," delves into the teachings of Lord Mahavir, emphasizing the concept of Sanyam (self-control, restraint, discipline) as the path to liberation. It functions as a "Chhayanuvad" (shadow translation), meaning it aims to capture the essence and spirit of the original text rather than a literal word-for-word translation.

Structure and Scope:

Introduction (Upo'dghat): The initial sections provide a detailed introduction to the Jain Agam literature, the significance of Sutrakritanga as the second Ang (major scripture), and the historical context of Jainism. It discusses the compilation of the Agams, the role of Ganadharas (disciples of Mahavir), and the eventual codification of scriptures centuries after Mahavir's Nirvana.
Philosophical Debates and Different Doctrines (Khando 1): A significant portion of the book, particularly the early chapters, engages with the various philosophical schools and viewpoints prevalent during Mahavir's time. It presents and analyzes different doctrines (vada) attributed to contemporary thinkers and spiritual leaders, often contrasting them with the Jain perspective. This section highlights Mahavir's ability to critically examine and refute erroneous views.
- Chapter 1: Ju'da jud'a v'ade (Different Doctrines): This chapter introduces various philosophical systems, including those that were materialist, nihilist, fatalistic, or adhered to specific ritualistic practices. It details the arguments of thinkers like Purana Kashyapa (Akriyavada), Pakudha Katyayana (Shashvatavada/Anantavada), Ajita Kesakambali (Ucchedavada/Bhutavada), Makkhali Gosala (Niyativada), and Sanjaya Belatthiputta (Agnanavada/Vipashchevada). These discussions showcase Mahavir's comprehensive understanding and refutation of these differing views.
- Chapter 2: Karma'nash (Destruction of Karma): This chapter focuses on the Jain concept of karma and the path to its cessation. It explains how actions bind the soul and the rigorous path of self-discipline, austerity, and ethical conduct to achieve liberation (Moksha).
- Chapter 5: Pap'nu fal (The Fruit of Sin): This section elaborates on the consequences of sinful actions, describing the tortures and suffering in hellish realms as a result of negative karma.
- Chapter 6: Bhagvan Mahavir (Lord Mahavir): This chapter provides an account of Lord Mahavir's life, his renunciation, his spiritual journey, and his attainment of Kevala Jnana (omniscience). It highlights his attributes and the profound nature of his enlightenment.
- Chapter 7: Adharmio'nu varna'n (Description of the Unrighteous): This chapter critiques various unrighteous or erroneous practices and beliefs that were prevalent, contrasting them with the true path of righteousness taught by Mahavir.
- Chapter 8: Sachu' Viratva (True Heroism): This chapter defines true heroism not in physical strength or worldly achievements but in spiritual fortitude, self-control, and unwavering adherence to Dharma, even in the face of adversity.
- Chapter 9: Dharm vishye (About Dharma): This chapter elaborates on the core principles of Jain Dharma as expounded by Mahavir, emphasizing non-violence (Ahimsa), truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possession as the foundational pillars.
- Chapter 10: Samadhi (Meditation/Equanimity): This chapter focuses on the importance of mental tranquility, equanimity, and deep meditation as crucial elements for spiritual progress and the attainment of liberation.
- Chapter 11: Moksh Marg (The Path to Liberation): This chapter details the practical steps and the ultimate goal of the Jain path – Moksha (liberation) – explaining how through right knowledge, right faith, and right conduct, one can break free from the cycle of birth and death.
- Chapter 12: Ju'da jud'a Vadio (Different Debaters): This chapter continues the discussion on various philosophical viewpoints, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses from the Jain perspective.
- Chapter 13: Ketlik Saf Saf Vato (Some Clear Statements): This chapter offers straightforward pronouncements on ethical conduct and spiritual principles, clarifying misunderstandings and addressing common doubts.
- Chapter 14: Shastra Gyan Kevi Rite Prapt Karvu? (How to Attain Scriptural Knowledge?): This chapter focuses on the importance of a guru and the proper method of acquiring spiritual knowledge through diligent study and practice.
- Chapter 15: Upasanh'ar (Conclusion): This chapter summarizes the key teachings and provides a concluding message, reiterating the importance of following the path shown by Mahavir.
- Chapter 16: Gatha (Verse): This chapter likely contains verses or verses that encapsulate the essence of the teachings.
Appendices: The book includes appendices that list the 45 Agam Granths according to the Shvetambara tradition and the scriptures accepted by the Digambara tradition, providing a broader context of Jain scripture.

Core Jain Principles Highlighted:

Ahimsa (Non-violence): This is a central theme, emphasized as the paramount principle. The book stresses the importance of avoiding harm to all living beings, both subtle and gross, in thought, word, and deed.
Sanyam (Self-Control): The title itself highlights the importance of self-control in various aspects of life – controlling senses, desires, emotions, and actions – as the means to achieve spiritual progress.
Karma: The text extensively discusses the theory of karma, explaining how actions lead to consequences and bind the soul. It details the path to nullify or destroy karma through ethical conduct, austerities, and spiritual practices.
Moksha (Liberation): The ultimate goal of the Jain path, Moksha, is presented as the state of freedom from the cycle of birth and death, achieved through the eradication of karma and the realization of the soul's true nature.
Righteous Conduct: The book elaborates on the principles of right conduct, including the five Mahavratas (great vows), Samitis (careful actions), and Guptis (control over mind, speech, and body).
Rejection of False Doctrines: A significant part of Sutrakritanga, and thus this book, involves refuting various heterodox philosophical views prevalent at the time, highlighting the uniqueness and correctness of Jain teachings.

Editorial Approach:

The editor, Gopaldas Jivabhai Patel, along with the publisher, Jain Sahitya Prakashan Mandir, and the compiler of the "Shri Pujabhai Jain Granthamala," aimed to make this valuable ancient heritage accessible. The "Nivedan" (statement) section reveals the editor's intention to adapt the ancient style to modern sensibilities while retaining the "shadow" or essence of the original text. The text is structured into paragraphs for better readability, and where arguments are rearranged for clarity, footnotes indicate the original placement.

In essence, "Mahavir swamino Sanyam Dharm" is a scholarly and devotional presentation of key Jain teachings derived from Sutrakritanga, offering insights into Lord Mahavir's philosophy of self-control, non-violence, and the path to spiritual liberation, contextualized within the broader landscape of Indian philosophical thought.