Panchvastuk Prakaran Part 07 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Panchvastuk Prakaran Part 07," focusing on its content and purpose:

Book Title: Panchvastuk Prakaran (Five Subjects/Essences) - Word-by-Word Commentary, Part 7 Author: Acharya Shri Haribhadrasurishwarji Maharaj (Original Text) Commentator/Editor: Panditvar Shri Pravinchandra Khimji Mota Publisher: Gitarth Ganga Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/005514/1

Overall Purpose and Context:

This text is the seventh part of a word-by-word commentary on the "Panchvastuk Prakaran," a significant Jain scripture composed by the esteemed Acharya Shri Haribhadrasurishwarji Maharaj. The commentary is meticulously prepared by Panditvar Shri Pravinchandra Khimji Mota. The "Panchvastuk Prakaran" itself is described as a collection of essential scriptural verses that delineate the principles of ascetic conduct, guiding the practitioner from the initiation of the ascetic life to its ultimate fulfillment. The author of the original text, Acharya Haribhadrasurishwarji, compiled these verses from various Agamas, organizing them into five main subjects, hence the title "Panchvastuk." This seventh part specifically focuses on the fifth subject, "Sanlekhana" (Controlled Termination/Ascetic Death).

Key Focus of Part 7: Sanlekhana (The Fifth Subject)

The primary subject of this volume is "Sanlekhana," which refers to the meticulous and spiritual process of preparing for and embracing the final moments of life, often translated as a form of ascetic death or controlled termination. This section is considered crucial for the ultimate well-being and liberation of the soul.

Core Concepts and Sections within Sanlekhana:

The "Sanlekhana" section, as presented in this volume, elaborates on the five subjects or essences crucial for an ascetic's journey and their ultimate preparation for Sanlekhana. These five subjects are:

Pravrajya Vidhan (Rules of Ascetic Initiation): This covers the initial steps and qualifications for adopting the ascetic path.
Pratidin Kriya (Daily Rituals/Activities): This details the daily observances and duties of an ascetic.
Vrat Sthapana (Establishment of Vows): This focuses on the solemn undertaking and observance of ascetic vows.
Anuyog Gan Anugya (Permissions/Guidelines for Studying Scriptures and Practices): This addresses the study of scriptures and the adherence to prescribed methodologies.
Sanlekhana (Controlled Termination/Ascetic Death): This is the core subject of this volume, detailing the preparation and process for a spiritually focused death.

Detailed Breakdown of "Sanlekhana" in Part 7:

This volume, Part 7, specifically delves into the "Sanlekhana Vastuk" (The Subject of Sanlekhana). The text highlights that this section contains profound methods for achieving a state of spiritual equanimity and contemplation at the time of death (Samadhi Maran and Pandit Maran). It is described as essential for those who are awakening from the slumber of delusion, aspiring for the cessation of worldly existence, and seeking ultimate liberation and self-realization.

The text outlines the detailed procedures and considerations for Sanlekhana, which encompasses the process of "kṛśa" (making thin/emaciated) both the body and the passions (kashayas). This emaciation of the body is not merely physical but a spiritual discipline to prepare the soul for a peaceful transition during death, avoiding any disturbance.

Key Aspects of Sanlekhana Discussed:

The volume elaborates on various components of Sanlekhana, including:

Abhyudgata Vihar (Elevated/Ascetic Conduct): This is presented as a crucial aspect, divided into three types:
- Jinakalph (Jina-like Conduct): The most rigorous form of asceticism.
- Shuddha Pariharik (Pure Exclusionary Conduct): Conduct involving specific exclusions.
- Yathaland (Conduct as Appropriate): Conduct that is suitable and fitting.
Abhyudgata Maran (Elevated/Ascetic Death): This is also presented in three forms:
- Padpopgaman (Standing like a Tree): A form of fasting where one remains standing until death.
- Ingini Maran (Controlled Death by Gestures): A form of controlled termination where communication is through gestures.
- Bhakta Parigya (Complete Fasting): A complete fast until death.
The process of Sanlekhana itself: This involves detailed discussions on various stages and practices, including:
- Dravya Sanlekhana (Material/External Austerities): Practices related to the body and external observances.
- Bhava Sanlekhana (Internal/Spiritual Austerities): Practices related to mental states, passions, and spiritual contemplation.
Detailed analysis of the "Sanlekhana Vastuk": The text meticulously breaks down the subject through various "dwars" (gates or aspects), including:
- Avyavachchhediti Man (Uninterrupted Mind): Maintaining mental focus.
- Panch Tulna (Five Comparisons): Comparing oneself with predecessors.
- Upakaran (Equipment/Possessions): Rules regarding possessions.
- Parikarma (Preparations): External and internal preparations.
- Tapa Bhavna (Austerities and Meditations): Various forms of ascetic practices.
- Sattva Bhavna (Fortitude and Courage): Cultivating inner strength.
- Shruta Bhavna (Scriptural Contemplation): Deepening understanding of scriptures.
- Ekatva Bhavna (Oneness/Solitude): Focusing on the self.
- Bala Bhavna (Strength and Endurance): Cultivating mental and physical fortitude.
- Vatavruksha (Banyan Tree): A metaphor for steadfastness and adherence to principles, particularly in accepting Jinakalph.
The Fivefold Divisions of Ascetic Conduct: The text explains how these five subjects form a progressive path for an ascetic.
The Importance of Ascetic Practices: The commentary emphasizes that these practices are designed to eliminate kashayas (passions) and the attachment to the body, leading to spiritual purification.
The Role of Acharya Haribhadrasurishwarji: The text acknowledges the profound wisdom of Acharya Haribhadrasurishwarji in compiling such valuable teachings from scattered scriptural sources.
The Commentary by Panditvar Shri Pravinchandra Mota: The commentary itself is a detailed "shabd-shaha vivechan" (word-by-word analysis), providing avataranika (introduction), bhavarth (essence), shargarth (meaning of the verse), tikarth (commentary), and detailed explanations.

Summary of the Sanlekhana Section:

The Sanlekhana section is presented as a vital "tapa kriya" (ascetic practice) prescribed by the Jinas to 'kṛś' (emaciate/subdue) the body and passions. It's highlighted that while all ascetic practices aim to subdue the body and passions, Sanlekhana is specifically performed at the end of life. The text emphasizes the importance of maintaining mental equanimity ("Avyavachchhediti Man") and the meticulous preparation required, including various austerities and contemplative practices. The commentary details the specific types of Abhyudgata Vihar and Abhyudgata Maran, their conditions, and the specific guidelines laid down by the Jinas. The text also stresses the importance of proper conduct, adherence to scriptural injunctions, and the role of the Guru in guiding these profound practices.

Key takeaway for the reader:

This volume offers a deep dive into the spiritual discipline of Sanlekhana within Jainism, explaining its significance, methodologies, and the profound philosophical underpinnings from the perspective of Acharya Haribhadrasurishwarji's commentary. It underscores the Jain emphasis on voluntary and spiritually prepared demise as a crucial step towards liberation.