Mithi Mithi Lage Che Mahavir Ni Deshna Part 3 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Mithi Mithi Lage Che Mahavir ni Deshna Part 3" authored by Shri Trilok Muni, based on the provided text snippets:

Book Title: Mithi Mithi Lage Che Mahavir ni Deshna Part 3 Author: Shri Trilok Muni Publisher: Jain Agam Navnit Prakashan Samiti, Surendranagar Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/004926/1

Overall Context:

This book is part of a larger series titled "Mithi Mithi Lage Che Mahavir ni Deshna" (Sweet are the Teachings of Mahavir), presented as "Jain Agam Navnit" (Essence of Jain Agams). Part 3 focuses on "Achar Shastra" (Science of Conduct), specifically covering six key Agams. The overall project aims to summarize and make accessible the vast knowledge contained within the 32 Jain Agams. Shri Trilok Muni is recognized as an "Agam Manishī" (Scholar of Agams).

Core Content of Part 3 (Achar Shastra - Six Agams):

The book delves into the principles of conduct as outlined in the following six Jain Agams:

Avashyak Sutra: This is a foundational text for daily observances and essential duties for both monks and laypeople. Its name is derived from the fact that its practice is considered avashyak (essential) at all times. It plays a crucial role in pratikraman (confession and repentance) for purifying actions and rectifying omissions. The text highlights its special significance, being placed even before other anga-bahya (external) Agams and being mandatory for every monk and lay follower to memorize. It is noted that unlike other Agams, the Avashyak Sutra can be recited at any time (kal-akal), even during asvadhyaya (times when scripture study is prohibited), particularly during dawn and dusk for pratikraman. The original text is considered to be of 6 chapters and approximately 125 verses, though it forms the basis for much larger pratikraman sutras used in practice.
Dashavaikalik Sutra: This anga-bahya sutra, considered an utkalik (can be studied at specific times) sutra, focuses on the conduct of monks. It is composed of 10 chapters and 2 chulikas (appendices). The content covers various aspects of monastic life, including alms-round etiquette (bhiksha charaya), dealing with the six types of living beings (shat kaya), the five great vows (pach mahavrat), ethical conduct, renunciation, discipline, knowledge, contemplation, and the ultimate goal of liberation. The text also provides historical context about its composition, attributing it to Acharya Shyyambhav, who compiled it for his young son.
Acharanga Sutra (Dwitiya Shrutkandh): This volume covers the second Shrutkandh of the Acharanga Sutra, focusing on the mahavratas (great vows) and the 25 associated spiritual disciplines (bhavana). It delves into details of monastic conduct, including rules for observing vows, ethical behavior, and spiritual practices.
Sthananga Sutra: This Sutra categorizes and enumerates various Jain principles, doctrines, and practices based on numerical classification (one to ten, and then ascending numbers). It covers a vast range of topics from the nature of the soul and the universe to ethical conduct, karma, celestial beings, and the teachings of the Tirthankaras. The text highlights the unique method of organizing knowledge through numerical categories.
Samavayana Sutra: Similar to Sthananga Sutra, this also uses numerical classification to systematically present Jain teachings. It details various aspects of Jain cosmology, Tirthankaras, celestial beings, spiritual states (gunasthana), and karma. It elaborates on the structure of the universe, the life cycles of various beings, and the classification of Jain knowledge.
Prashna Vyakarana Sutra: This Sutra is considered important for understanding conduct (Achar Shastra). It primarily focuses on the nature and consequences of actions, particularly the five great vows (pachavrat) and their transgression (ativichar). It analyzes the root causes of actions (karma) and the spiritual path towards liberation. The text notes that while the original intent might have been a 'science of conduct,' the current text includes discussions on miraculous powers (vidya) and celestial beings, suggesting potential historical evolution or compilation differences. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the nuances of actions and their impact on the spiritual journey.

Key Themes and Content Covered:

Foundational Jain Principles: The book elaborates on core Jain concepts such as Achar (conduct), Vrata (vows), Samiti (carefulness in action), Gupti (restraint), Tapa (asceticism), Dharma, and Moksha.
Monastic Discipline: A significant portion focuses on the strict rules and practices for monks (shramana) and nuns (shramani), including their daily routines, alms-seeking (gochari), diet, attire, and ethical conduct.
Layperson's Conduct (Shravakacharya): While primarily focused on monastic life, the text also touches upon the conduct expected of lay followers (shravaka), particularly in their support and observance of Jain principles.
Pratikraman and Rituals: The importance of pratikraman (confession, repentance, and rectification of actions) is highlighted, with explanations of various pratikraman sutras like Avashyak Sutra, Samayik Sutra, and Chovish Jin Stuti Sutra.
Philosophical and Cosmological Aspects: The text touches upon elements of Jain philosophy, including the nature of the soul, karma, the universe (lok), celestial beings (devas), and the path to liberation (moksha).
Numerical Classification (Thanaanga & Samavayana): The book explains how these Agams use numerical classification to systematically present vast amounts of information, ranging from the number of types of beings to the details of spiritual stages.
The Importance of Intent and Mindfulness: The underlying principles emphasize the significance of right intention (bhavana) and carefulness (samiti) in all actions to minimize harm and progress spiritually.
Critique of Ritualism and Superstition: The author, Shri Trilok Muni, is presented as someone who upholds the Agams while also critically examining and challenging rigid traditions or superstitions (rutivad ki shalya chikitsa - surgical treatment of dogmatic beliefs), advocating for a deeper understanding based on Mahavir's original teachings.
Spiritual Practices: The book details various spiritual practices like samayik (equanimity), kayotsarg (standing meditation/self-observation), tapa (asceticism), and dhyana (meditation) in the context of monastic life.

Author's Approach (Shri Trilok Muni):

Shri Trilok Muni is portrayed as a profound scholar of Agams, presenting complex teachings with clarity and precision. His approach is described as unwavering in its adherence to Jain Agams (sol aana Jain Agam anukul), yet unafraid to address and reform outdated or contradictory practices (rutivad ki shalya chikitsa). He is noted for his unbiased presentation of truth, free from sectarian attachments, and his deep contemplation of the Agamic principles.

Overall Significance:

"Mithi Mithi Lage Che Mahavir ni Deshna Part 3" serves as a guide to understanding the practical and ethical aspects of Jainism as laid down in ancient scriptures. It aims to provide readers with the essence of these important Agams, making the teachings of Lord Mahavir accessible and relatable. The book emphasizes the importance of sincere spiritual practice, the avoidance of harmful actions, and the pursuit of liberation.