Niyamsar

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Niyamsar" by Kundkundacharya, with Hindi translation by Gyanmati Mataji, based on the provided text:

Niyamsar: A Summary

"Niyamsar," authored by the revered Jain saint Kundkundacharya and translated into Hindi by Pujya Aryika Ratna Shri Gyanmati Mataji, is a profound Jain text published by Digambar Jain Trilok Shodh Sansthan. The book delves into the core principles of the Jain path to liberation, primarily focusing on "the path and the fruit of the path."

Core Subject Matter:

The "Niyamsar" is a treatise that elaborates on the path to moksha (liberation) and its ultimate fruit, which is nirvana. The Acharya explains that the "path" is the means to achieve moksha, and "nirvana" is the result or the fruit of that path.

Understanding "Niyam":

The term "Niyam" is defined as that which is to be done, or followed, according to the rules or principles. The text clarifies that "Niyam" encompasses Samyak Darshan (Right Faith), Samyak Gyan (Right Knowledge), and Samyak Charitra (Right Conduct) – the three jewels of Jainism, collectively known as the Ratnatraya. The word "Sar" (essence) is appended to "Niyam" to emphasize the elimination of anything contrary or erroneous (vipreet) from this path.

The Role of Nayas (Viewpoints):

A significant portion of the text, particularly in the introductory sections and discussions, revolves around the concept of Nayas. The author, Kundkundacharya, emphasizes the importance of understanding both Nischay Naya (the ultimate, absolute viewpoint) and Vyavahar Naya (the practical, conventional viewpoint).

• Vyavahar Naya (Conventional Viewpoint): This viewpoint describes the path as understood and practiced in the worldly sense. It includes concepts like the five Mahavratas (great vows), five Samitis (careful conduct), three Guptis (restraints), and the devotion to the Panch Parmeshthis (the five supreme beings). The text acknowledges the necessity of Vyavahar Naya as a means to achieve the ultimate goal. The author criticizes interpretations that dismiss Vyavahar Naya entirely, highlighting that Kundkundacharya himself described Vyavahar Ratnatraya in the initial chapters.
• Nischay Naya (Absolute Viewpoint): This viewpoint describes the ultimate reality and the essence of the path. It focuses on the pure, unadulterated nature of the soul, free from all karmic bondage and delusion. The text stresses that Nischay Naya describes the soul as inherently pure, possessing infinite knowledge, perception, bliss, and power, akin to the state of Siddhas. The ultimate path is characterized by introspection, meditation, and a state of being free from all worldly afflictions and dualities.

The Relationship Between Nischay and Vyavahar:

The Niyamsar clearly posits that Vyavahar Naya is a means to the end, which is Nischay Naya. Vyavahar Ratnatraya is the path that leads to Nischay Ratnatraya, which is the ultimate goal. The text asserts that one cannot attain Nischay Charitra without first mastering Vyavahar Charitra.

Focus on Munis:

The text primarily addresses the path and conduct of munis (monks). It describes their practices, their state of equanimity, and their ultimate liberation. While acknowledging the existence of householders (shravaks) in other works by Kundkundacharya, Niyamsar's focus is on the monastic discipline and spiritual journey.

Key Themes and Concepts Discussed:

• The Nature of the Soul: The soul is described as eternal, pure, conscious, blissful, and possessing infinite knowledge and power. It is distinct from the body and all other substances.
• Karmic Bondage and Liberation: The text elaborates on the process of karmic bondage and the means to achieve liberation by eradicating all karmas.
• The Path to Moksha: This path is identified as the Ratnatraya (Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct), encompassing both the behavioral aspects (Vyavahar) and the ultimate spiritual realization (Nischay).
• The Role of Meditation and Introspection: The text emphasizes the importance of inner contemplation and deep meditation to realize the true nature of the soul and attain liberation.
• The Importance of Scriptures and Teachers: The knowledge of scriptures (Agama) and the guidance of pure souls (Apta) are crucial for understanding the path correctly.
• The Essence of Jain Philosophy: The Niyamsar underscores the Jain principles of non-violence (Ahimsa), truthfulness (Satya), non-stealing (Asteya), celibacy (Brahmacharya), and non-possession (Aparigraha) as fundamental to the path.
• Distinction from Other Paths: The text subtly differentiates Jainism's emphasis on the soul's inherent purity and self-reliance from other philosophical systems.

Structure of the Book:

The Niyamsar is structured into twelve chapters (Adhikars), each focusing on specific aspects of the path and the soul's journey. The text meticulously details the progression from external observances to the ultimate internal realization.

The Commentary by Padmaprabh Maladharideva:

The Sanskrit commentary (Tatparya Vritti) by Padmaprabh Maladharideva is also referenced, providing further scholarly insights and interpretations of Kundkundacharya's profound verses. The Hindi translation by Gyanmati Mataji aims to make these profound teachings accessible to a wider audience, explaining the concepts with clarity and providing additional context.

In essence, Niyamsar is a guide to understanding the Jain path to liberation, emphasizing the necessity of purifying the soul through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct, with a profound focus on the ultimate realization of the self as pure and liberated.