Padharo Sahebji

"Padharo Sahebji" (Welcome, Sir/Madam), published by Manav Kalyan Sanstha and compiled by Dharmaratnavijay, is a comprehensive guide to the Jain principles and practices of supatra dan (charitable giving to worthy recipients), specifically focusing on the proper way to offer alms (bhiksha or gochari) to Jain monks and nuns. The book emphasizes the profound spiritual benefits of supatra dan for the donor, aiming to purify one's karma and progress towards liberation (moksha).

Key Themes and Content:

• The Reverence for Ascetics: The book begins by explaining the immense respect and honor accorded to Jain monks and nuns, symbolized by the universal greeting "Padharo Sahebji." This welcome is extended by all members of a household, regardless of age or occupation, demonstrating the deep veneration for their renounced lifestyle. The text highlights that even celestial beings aspire to this ascetic path.
• The Significance of Supatra Dan: The core message revolves around the unparalleled merit gained through supatra dan. It is presented as a means to overcome the cycle of birth and death and to alleviate one's sins. The book defines a supatra (worthy recipient) as one who protects from sins, and the act of giving to them is described as an infinite accumulation of merit that destroys infinite past sins.
• The 42 Flaws in Gochari: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to detailing the 42 flaws (dosh) that can render the act of giving impure. These flaws are categorized into:
  • Udgamana dosh (16 flaws): These are primarily the responsibility of the householder and relate to the preparation and offering of the food. Examples include preparing food specifically for monks (aadhakarma), mixing food intended for monks with food for general consumption (mithra), using contaminated utensils, improper handling of sachitta (living) items, and the act of purchasing food specifically for alms (kruta).
  • Utpadana dosh (16 flaws): These are generally attributed to the monks themselves and involve actions taken to procure alms. Examples include playing with children to gain favor (dhatri), acting as a messenger for householders (dooti), predicting the future of householders (nimitta), using pride or attachment to gain alms (lobha), and employing supernatural powers (vidya, mantra) for alms.
  • Eshana dosh (10 flaws): These relate to the recipient's (monk's) acceptance of the alms and involve the householder's awareness and decision-making. These include doubt about the purity of the food (shankita), offering food with unclean hands or from unclean containers (prakshita), food that has been contaminated (nishchita), food covered by impure items (pihita), and offering food mixed with sachitta items (sammishrita).
• The Householder's Role and Responsibility: The book strongly emphasizes the householder's duty to understand these flaws and ensure that their offerings are nirdosh (flawless). It provides detailed instructions on how to prepare and offer food correctly, such as turning off the television, closing the gas, not moving living substances, and using clean water. The text clarifies that while the intention is crucial, the action must also be performed with proper knowledge and adherence to guidelines.
• Practical Guidance and Etiquette: "Padharo Sahebji" offers practical advice on various aspects of this practice:
  • Making Invitations: It explains the proper way to invite monks and nuns, the appropriate times to do so, and the importance of being aware of the monks' daily routines.
  • Home Etiquette: The book outlines how each member of the household should participate in the offering, what actions are permissible and impermissible when monks are present, and the importance of maintaining cleanliness and respect.
  • Dietary Restrictions: It delves into specific food items and ingredients that are permissible or forbidden, discussing concepts like sachitta, achitta, bhyakshya (edible), abhakshya (inedible), and the correct preparation of food according to Jain principles. It also provides lists of items that become impure after a certain time or under certain conditions.
  • Dealing with Specific Situations: The book addresses how to handle situations like the presence of non-Jains in the home, interactions with security guards, and the importance of proper sanitation.
  • The Role of Family: It encourages all family members to participate in the act of giving and to instill these values in children.
  • Respect for Monastics: The text details how to address and interact respectfully with monks and nuns, emphasizing the importance of proper etiquette, attire, and behavior in their presence.
  • The Significance of Upadhana (Donation of Utensils and Accessories): Beyond food, the book also covers the donation of essential items like robes, alms bowls, brushes (rajoharan), and other accessories that support the monks' ascetic practice.
  • The Impact of Supatra Dan on Rebirth: The book includes stories and examples from Jain scriptures and legends that illustrate the immense positive consequences of supatra dan, including attainment of wealth, higher births, and ultimately, liberation. Conversely, it warns against the ill effects of giving to unworthy recipients (kupaatra).
• The Philosophy Behind the Practice: The underlying philosophy is that by meticulously following these rules and offering pure alms, one not only supports the ascetic's path but also purifies one's own soul, accumulating immense merit and moving closer to spiritual realization.

In essence, "Padharo Sahebji" is a devotional and practical manual for Jain householders, guiding them on how to perform the sacred act of supatra dan with utmost sincerity, knowledge, and reverence, ensuring the spiritual well-being of both the giver and the receiver.