Paap Punya Ane Sanyam

Based on the provided Gujarati text, here is a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Paap Punya ane Sanyam" by Gopaldas Jivabhai Patel, published by Gujarat Vidyapith Ahmedabad:

Book Title: Paap Punya ane Sanyam (Sin, Merit, and Restraint) Author: Gopaldas Jivabhai Patel Publisher: Shri Jain Sahitya Prakashan Samiti, c/o Gujarat Vidyapith, Ahmedabad Publication Date: First Edition, September 1940

This book is a compilation and translation (Chhayanuvad) of three important Anga texts of Jainism: Vipaka Sutra (11th Anga), Antakrida Disha (8th Anga), and Anuttaraupapaticadasa (9th Anga). The editor, Gopaldas Jivabhai Patel, has brought these together to present a connected narrative of the Jain concept of karma, categorized as "Paap" (sin), "Punya" (merit), and "Sanyam" (restraint).

The core premise of the book is that the entire Jain philosophy of karma can be understood through these three terms. Ultimately, any religious path guides its followers on what actions to avoid (sin) and what actions to perform (merit). While actions themselves are considered gross, the underlying intention is crucial. The book argues that the foundational aspect of any religion lies in its commandments and prohibitions regarding actions, making the concept of karma-akarma (action-inaction) a key differentiator.

The book is structured into three main sections, corresponding to the three Anga texts:

Section 1: Paap na Falo (Fruits of Sin) - Based on Vipaka Sutra

• This section analyzes the concept of sin and its consequences. The introduction highlights that the Vipaka Sutra, as it exists today, might not be in its original complete form, referencing mentions of different numbers of chapters and studies in other Jain texts.
• The text presents ten stories illustrating ten major sins according to Jain belief. The editor identifies the following ten major sins or professions associated with them:
  1. Subagiri (Administrator/Governor): The sin is not in holding the position but in engaging in unjust practices like collecting false taxes, imposing wrongful fines, bribery, arson, and deceit.
  2. Catching Animals (Vaghri): A profession inherently involving violence.
  3. Egg Trade: A trade that directly involves the destruction of life.
  4. Meat Trade: A trade that directly involves the destruction of life.
  5. Royal Priest: Performing sacrifices involving meat for the king's safety and prosperity.
  6. Law Enforcement Officer (Fojdar): Punishing criminals according to the king's law.
  7. Physician (Vaidya): Prescribing treatments that may involve animal products.
  8. Cook (Rasoiya): Preparing meat for the king's kitchen.
  9. Lustful King: The sin highlighted is the king who, driven by lust, murdered his stepmothers who interfered with his desires.
  10. Prostitution: Engaging in sexual acts outside of marriage.
• The editor critically analyzes the stories, noting that while sins like bribery and murder are clearly depicted as culpable, the book also examines professions that inherently involve harm to living beings. The text delves into the idea that a craftsman or professional might be less culpable than the consumer who buys their goods, suggesting a broader societal responsibility.
• The consequences of sin are described through the concepts of rebirth (Janamtar) and hellish torments (Narak Yatra). The stories illustrate how actions in past lives lead to current suffering, and how even in this life, sinful actions bring about negative outcomes. The text suggests that while the scriptures do not provide the direct cause of suffering in the current life for some individuals, it is often rooted in past-life actions. The concept of the soul's inherent tendency to eventually find its way to the right path is discussed, though the text emphasizes the need for explicit reasons for reformation.

Section 2: Punya na Falo (Fruits of Merit) - Based on Vipaka Sutra

• This section focuses on meritorious deeds and their rewards. The primary meritorious act highlighted in the stories is feeding Jain monks (Sadhu).
• The editor acknowledges that this might appear superficial, but argues that in ancient texts, such actions are linked to the act of spreading light and wisdom. The text emphasizes that Satsang (association with the virtuous or wise) is the fundamental cause of merit.
• The book cautions against the misconception that merely providing food to monks guarantees merit. True merit comes from the contact with virtuous beings and the spiritual benefit derived from such association. The text suggests that the act of feeding monks is a way for householders to connect with spiritual figures and gain benefit from their presence. The author stresses that the true recipient of merit is one who allows the spiritual teachings to illuminate their heart.

Section 3: Sanyam na Falo (Fruits of Restraint) - Based on Antakrida Disha and Anuttaraupapaticadasa

• This section deals with restraint (Sanyam) and its ultimate fruits, leading to liberation (Moksha).
• The stories illustrate two paths to liberation:
  1. Through heavenly realms: Some individuals, after practicing restraint, attain certain heavens (like Anuttara heavens) and after a period, are reborn as humans once more, eventually achieving liberation.
  2. Direct liberation in this life: Other individuals, through the excellent practice of restraint in their current life, attain complete annihilation of karma and achieve liberation immediately upon death.
• The author notes that the detailed practices of Sanyam are not elaborated upon, assuming that a true seeker will naturally understand them from other Jain texts.
• The text places a significant emphasis on Tapa (asceticism), particularly fasting (Upvas), as the central practice for achieving liberation. The book contrasts Jainism with other religions where fasting is primarily for physical or mental purification. In Jainism, fasting is presented as a direct and primary means for soul purification (Atmashuddhi) and shedding accumulated karma (Nirjara).
• The book vividly describes the extreme physical emaciation achieved through severe fasting, drawing parallels to descriptions of ascetic practices in Buddhism (e.g., by Gautama Buddha in the Mahasihanada Sutra). The text highlights that while fasting is a crucial component, the ultimate goal is to achieve liberation by transcending bodily limitations and karmic bonds.
• A significant observation is made about the Jain practice of Sallekhana (vow of holy death) or fasting unto death, which is presented as the final act of restraint for those who are liberated.
• The author acknowledges that while the path of severe self-mortification might seem extreme to modern sensibilities, it represents a courageous and steadfast pursuit of truth for the individuals involved. The text concludes by stating that while the methods might be varied, the ultimate effectiveness lies in the faith and devotion (Bhavana, Shraddha) of the practitioner. The book also suggests that the Jain path of restraint, with its emphasis on self-control and non-violence, can be beneficial for societal well-being, counteracting issues like unchecked desires and violence prevalent in some other societies.

Overall Significance:

"Paap Punya ane Sanyam" serves as an accessible introduction to the foundational principles of Jain ethics and karma. By weaving together narratives from the Anga texts, it illustrates the cyclical nature of existence driven by actions, the rewards of virtuous deeds, and the ultimate goal of liberation through rigorous self-discipline and asceticism. The book also provides insightful commentary on the historical context and the philosophical underpinnings of these practices within Jainism.