Paryushana Kalpsutram

The provided text is a portion of the "Paryushana Kalpasutram," specifically the commentary called "Kalparth Bodhini" by Muni Kesharmuni and Buddhisagar Gani, published by Jinadatta Suri Gyanbhandar. The text details the Jain practice of Paryushana, a period of fasting and repentance observed annually by Jains.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and content covered in the provided pages:

I. Introduction and Context:

• Title and Authorship: The book is titled "Paryushana Kalpasutram," compiled by Muni Kesharmuni and commented upon by Buddhisagar Gani.
• Publisher: Jinadatta Suri Gyanbhandar.
• Reverence: The text begins with salutations to Lord Mahavir, Gautam Swami, Sudharma Swami, and the Acharyas Buddhisagar Surishwar and Kailasagar Surishwar, highlighting the lineage of spiritual authority.
• Purpose: It is part of a project by Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra to scan and preserve Jain texts, emphasizing its private and personal use.

II. Kalpasutra and its Importance:

• Paryushana Kalpasutra: The text identifies the "Paryushana Kalpasutra" as a significant scripture within Jainism, often referred to as the "crown of all scriptures" for its ability to fulfill all desires. It's widely recited and studied annually by Jains.
• Commentaries: The Kalpasutra has numerous commentaries, and this specific commentary, "Kalparth Bodhini," is presented as a concise explanation.
• Compilation Basis: The compilation of this commentary is based on other important works like the Vinayendu Suri's Kalpa Tippan, Jinaprabha Suri's Sandeha Vish Oushadhi, and Samayasundari's Kalpa Lata.
• Key Compiler: The primary compiler is the Anuyogacharya Shrimat Keshar Muni, a disciple of the influential Mohan Muni.

III. Detailed Explanation of Concepts Related to Paryushana:

The text delves into specific Jain concepts and practices, often engaging in detailed discussions and rectifications of various interpretations. Some of the prominent topics include:

• The Ten Kalpas: The text outlines ten specific "kalpas" (rules or practices) for monks and nuns, including:
  • Achalakya (Achalakya): Being clothless or wearing minimal clothing.
  • Audesik (Audesik): Rules regarding food prepared specifically for monks.
  • Shayyatara (Shayyatara): The rules concerning the householder who provides lodging.
  • Raja Pind (Raja Pind): Rules pertaining to food offerings from kings or rulers.
  • Kritikarma (Kritikarma): Rules related to rituals like bowing and salutations.
  • Vrata (Vrata): The vows undertaken.
  • Jyeshtha (Jyeshtha): Rules concerning seniority and hierarchy.
  • Pratikraman (Pratikraman): The ritual of confession and repentance.
  • Masakalpa (Masakalpa): Rules related to staying in one place for a month.
  • Paryushanakalpa (Paryushanakalpa): The specific rules for the Paryushana period.
• Discussions on Different Jain Eras: The text frequently refers to the rules and practices of different Jain epochs (first/last Jin Tirth, middle Jin Tirth, Mahavideh kshetra) and how they applied to monks and nuns.
• The Case of Garbhapahara (Garbhapahara): A significant portion of the text is dedicated to refuting interpretations that suggest the transference of Lord Mahavir's embryo from Devananda's womb to Trishala's womb was an "in-auspicious" event. The commentary argues that this event, described as "Garbhapahara" or "Garbhadharana," was a divine intervention and auspicious, leading to the birth of a Tirthankara. It addresses various interpretations from different commentaries and establishes the auspiciousness of the event.
• Paryushana Period: The text discusses the duration of Paryushana, its determination based on the intercalary month (adhik masa), and the differing opinions on its exact timing. It clarifies that Paryushana is primarily linked to the fifty days following the Chaturmas period.
• Types of Paryushana: It distinguishes between "Grihya Gyata" (known by householders) and "Grihi Gyata" (known by householders related to specific annual rituals).
• The Ten Kalpas in Detail: The commentary meticulously explains each of the ten kalpas, providing scriptural references and clarifications on their meanings and applications. For instance, it elaborates on the concept of "Achalakya" and how it applies even when monks wear clothes.
• The Importance of Karma and Intent: The text implicitly and explicitly highlights the significance of intention (bhava) and the purity of karma in Jain practice.
• Discussion on "Kalyanaka" (Kalyanaka): A significant portion is dedicated to understanding the concept of auspicious events in the lives of Tirthankaras, specifically addressing the debate on whether the embryo transference was "auspicious" or "inauspicious." The commentary strongly argues for its auspicious nature.
• The Nature of Jain Monasticism Across Eras: The text discusses the differences in practices and rules for monks and nuns in different periods of Jain history, attributing these variations to the changing dispositions of beings in each era.
• Illustrative Examples and Stories: To clarify complex points, the text employs illustrative examples and stories, such as the incident involving the interpretation of the term "Nata" and "Nati" to explain the "Rijujada" (simple-minded) nature of monks in the first Tirthankara's era. It also narrates the story of Naggaketu to demonstrate the efficacy of Ashtam Tapas (an austerity).
• The Significance of the Paryushana Period: The text emphasizes the importance of observing Paryushana for breaking the cycle of karma and achieving spiritual liberation.
• The Authoritative Nature of Scriptures: The commentary frequently cites and relies upon earlier authoritative Jain scriptures and commentaries to support its interpretations and refute opposing views.
• The Role of Teachers and Disciples: The text highlights the importance of the Guru-Shishya parampara (teacher-disciple tradition) in understanding and practicing Jain tenets.

IV. Structure and Content Flow:

The text is organized into distinct "Vyakhyanas" (commentaries or explanations), each focusing on specific aspects of the Kalpasutra and its relevance to Paryushana. The numbering of the Vyakhyanas (from 1 to 9, and further with specific text references) indicates a systematic and detailed exposition.

V. Key Arguments and Counterarguments:

The commentary actively engages with and refutes alternative interpretations, particularly regarding the auspiciousness of the embryo transference and the precise timing and rules of Paryushana. It demonstrates a deep engagement with existing Jain philosophical and ritualistic literature.

In essence, this excerpt from the "Paryushana Kalpasutram" with the "Kalparth Bodhini" commentary provides a deep dive into the philosophical, historical, and practical aspects of Paryushana in Jainism, emphasizing adherence to scriptural injunctions and the rectification of perceived misinterpretations.