Panch Pratikramana Sarth

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Panch Pratikramana Sarth" in English, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Panch Pratikramana Sarth (Five Pratikraman with Commentary)

Author: Gokaldas Mangaldas Shah (Implied based on Publisher and the nature of the commentary)

Publisher: Shah Gokaldas Mangaldas

Overall Purpose: The text "Panch Pratikraman Sarth" is a detailed commentary and guide to performing the essential daily and periodic practices (Pratikraman) in Jainism. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of these rituals, including their meaning, substance, special significance, footnotes, and the prescribed methods. The book is presented as a valuable resource for spiritual development and the path to liberation (Moksha).

Key Sections and Concepts:

1. Dedication and Acknowledgements (Pages 4-6):

   • The book is dedicated to the revered spiritual guides, Acharya Shri Bhartrichandrasurishwarji Maharaj Saheb and Acharya Shrimad Sagarchandra Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb. Their virtues, character, and teachings are highly praised, and the book is offered as a tribute to their immortal souls.
   • The text expresses gratitude to various individuals and families for their financial and editorial support, highlighting the collaborative effort involved in its publication. This includes mentioning donations made in memory of specific individuals.
   • Thanks are extended to Munishri Vidhichandji Maharaj for his guidance, and to Seth Hazarimalji Nathmalji Sampatlalji and others for their support. Munishri Vriddhichandji Maharaj is also acknowledged.
   • Appreciation is given to Pandit Amritlal Mohanlal Sanghvi for reviewing the press copy and proofs, and to Munishri Lachmandasji Maharaj and Sushilbhai Sumatichand Mangaldas for their advice.
   • A statement of apology (Trividhe Michhami Dukadam) is included for any potential errors or inconsistencies that might have arisen due to oversight or printing issues, indicating a commitment to accuracy and adherence to scripture.

2. Introduction to Pratikraman (Page 5):

   • Pratikraman is described as an essential activity that should be performed both in the morning and evening for the development of the soul.
   • Performing daily actions with the goal of spiritual progress leads to the purification of virtues like right faith (Samyaktva) and right conduct (Charitra), ultimately enabling the practitioner to attain liberation.
   • The text identifies Pratikraman as a spiritual activity that helps in controlling the influx of karmas (Ashrav), leading to the cessation of karmic inflow (Samvar) and the destruction of desires (Trushna).
   • The five types of Pratikraman are mentioned: Daivasik (daily), Ratrik (nightly), Pakshik (fortnightly), Chauhmāsik (four-monthly), and Samvatsarik (yearly). This particular book focuses on the first two (Daivasik and Ratrik).
   • The "Six Essentials" (Shad Avashyak) of Jain practice are listed: Samayik, Chaturvishati-stav, Vandana (or Vandana's), Pratikraman, Kayotsarg, and Pratyakhyan. These are considered essential for controlling the influx of karmas and achieving spiritual progress.

3. The Structure of the Book (Page 9 - Index):

   • The index reveals a vast array of content, starting with core prayers like the Namaskar Mantra and introductory verses (Ichhami Khama-samano, Iriyavahiyam).
   • It includes detailed sections on various Pratikraman procedures, prayers, stotras (hymns), and philosophical concepts like the eighteen Papsthanaks (places of sin) and virtues.
   • Specific stotras and hymns dedicated to various Tirthankaras (like Shantinathji) and spiritual leaders (like Acharya Shri Bhartrichandra Surishwarji) are present.
   • A significant portion is dedicated to the description of the 24 Tirthankaras, their parentage, birthplaces, symbols (Laanchan), physical attributes (height, color), and lifespans (Page 12).
   • The text also includes detailed explanations of the virtues and characteristics of Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and Sadhus (Pages 25-35).

4. Detailed Prayers and Practices:

   • Namaskar Sutra (Pages 23-26): The text begins with the Navkar (Namaskar) Mantra, explaining its significance, the meaning of each Parmeshthi (Arhant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyaya, Sadhu), and the 108 virtues associated with them.
   • Panchindriya Sutra (Pages 35-37): This section likely deals with controlling the five senses.
   • Khama-samana Sutra (Pages 37-38): A prayer of respect and humility, usually offered to Gurudev.
   • Iriyavahiyam Sutra (Pages 38-44): This is a crucial prayer confessing any harm caused to living beings while walking or moving. It meticulously details different types of harm (to one-sensed, two-sensed, etc., beings) caused by various actions.
   • Tassa Uttari Sutra (Pages 45-47): This prayer seeks purification, atonement, and removal of impurities (shalyas - Maya, Nidana, Mithyatva) through special purification and penance.
   • Annath Usasiyena Sutra (Pages 47-51): This prayer outlines exceptions (Agars) to the strict observance of Kayotsarg (standing still in meditation), allowing for unavoidable bodily functions.
   • Logassa Sutra (Pages 54-72): A stotra (hymn) praising the 24 Tirthankaras, detailing their names, parentage, symbols, and lifespans.
   • Karemi Bhante Sutra (Pages 74-78): This is the Pratyakhyan (vow or renunciation) for Samayik, outlining the commitment to avoid sinful activities and observe strict rules for a specific period.
   • Other Essential Prayers: The book includes numerous other prayers, stotras, and verses like Guru Vandana, Pratikraman procedures, and various auspicious verses like "Chattari Mangalam" (Page 9).

5. Explanation of Virtues and Sins:

   • The text elaborates on the qualities of the five Parmeshthis (Page 25).
   • It details the 12 qualities of Arhants (8 Pratiharyas + 4 Atishayas) and the 8 qualities of Siddhas (Pages 26-31).
   • The 36 qualities of an Acharya and the 25 qualities of an Upadhyaya are explained (Pages 31-34).
   • The 27 qualities of a Sadhu are also elaborated upon.
   • The text discusses the 18 Papsthanaks (sins) and the 4 Vikathas (idle talks) (Pages 121-123).
   • It explains the concept of the 84 lakh (or 8.4 million) life-forms and the importance of non-violence towards them.

6. Commentary and Explanations:

   • The "Sarth" aspect of the title implies that the text provides a detailed explanation (Shabdarth, Padarth, Vishesharth, footnotes) for each verse and practice. This commentary aims to make the complex Jain teachings accessible.
   • The language used is likely Gujarati, given the publisher and contributors, with explanations provided in a way that clarifies the original Prakrit or Sanskrit texts.

Spiritual Significance:

• The book emphasizes that Pratikraman is not merely a ritual but a profound spiritual discipline for cleansing the soul, cultivating virtues, and progressing towards liberation.
• By diligently performing these practices, Jains aim to purify their character, reduce their karmic load, and move closer to the ultimate goal of Moksha.
• The detailed explanations and prayers are intended to foster devotion, mindfulness, and a deep understanding of Jain philosophy.

Historical and Contextual Information:

• The publication date is mentioned as V.S. 1998 (1942 CE), making it a relatively modern text in the context of Jain literature.
• The mention of the "Shri Pārśvachandra Sūri Gach" indicates the specific lineage or sect within Jainism to which the commentary adheres.
• The inclusion of verses and stotras dedicated to spiritual leaders like Acharya Shri Bhartrichandra Surishwarji and Acharya Shri Sagarchandra Surishwarji highlights the importance of the Guru-Shishya parampara in the transmission of Jain knowledge.

In essence, "Panch Pratikraman Sarth" serves as a spiritual manual, guiding Jain practitioners through the systematic performance of essential rituals with deep understanding and devotion, ultimately leading them on the path of righteousness and spiritual liberation.