Pratikraman Sambandhi Vishishta Marmsparshi Prashnottar

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Pratikraman Sambandhi Vishishta Marmsparshi Prashnottar" by Jagdishprasad Jain, based on the provided PDF content:

This book delves into various aspects of Pratikraman (repentance and confession), a crucial practice in Jainism, through a question-and-answer format. It explores the deeper meanings and practices related to essential Jain rituals and principles.

Key Themes and Questions Addressed:

• The "Karemi Bhante" Recitation: The text explains how the six essential Avashyaks (duties) are symbolically represented in the "Karemi Bhante" mantra. Each part of the recitation is linked to a specific Avashyak:

  • Samayik (meditation/equanimity) is from "Samayiam."
  • Chaturvinsati Stava (praise of the 24 Tirthankaras) is indicated by "Bhante!"
  • Vandana (obeisance) is represented by "Pajjupasami" and also suggested by "Bhante!" in reference to the venerated gurus.
  • Pratikraman (confession) is from "Padikkami."
  • Kayotsarg (abandonment of the body/self-reflection) is indicated by "Vosirami."
  • Pratyakhyan (renunciation) is from "Savajjam Jogan Paccakkhāmi."

• Reasons for Kayotsarg: The text elaborates on the five reasons for performing Kayotsarg, as mentioned in the "Tassa Uttari" text: to elevate the soul, for atonement, for purification, to become free from inner afflictions (shalya), and to annihilate past karma. Additionally, Kayotsarg is performed to reflect on transgressions in knowledge, perception, conduct, and austerity committed during the day, as per the "Ichchhami Nam Bhante" text.

• The Order of Kayotsarg Reasons: The text explains the logical sequence of the five reasons for Kayotsarg using a material analogy (a thorn in the foot) to illustrate the spiritual process of purification and removal of inner impurities. The sequence emphasizes progress from awakening the desire for self-elevation to the meticulous removal of subtle karmic residues.

• The Value of Qualities Over Quantity in Panche Paramesthi: The book discusses how the Panche Paramesthi (Arhant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyay, Sadhu) have different numbers of virtues. It argues that the qualitative superiority of virtues, as exemplified by the Siddhas, is more significant than their numerical count, comparing it to the greater value of a 500-rupee note over many coins.

• Pratikraman for Laypeople (Shravaka) from Monk (Shramana) Texts: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to a debate on whether a lay follower should perform Pratikraman using the five texts intended for monks. The arguments presented suggest that a lay follower should not adopt the rituals and recitations meant for monks, as the term "Shramana" specifically refers to monks and not laypeople. Applying these texts directly without understanding the underlying principles and one's own vows could be seen as a form of transgression.

• Differences in Recitation and Practice for Monks (Shramana) and Nuns (Shramani): The text outlines the specific differences in the Pratikraman recitations and practices for male ascetics (Shramana) and female ascetics (Shramani). These include specific word changes related to gender (e.g., "purush katha" instead of "stri katha"), differences in conduct during Kayotsarg (seated for nuns), and variations in dietary limits.

• The Five Sentiments of the Vow of Non-Possession (Aparigraha Vrata): The text explains the five sentiments related to the vow of non-possession, which involve controlling attachment and aversion towards the objects of the five senses (hearing, sight, smell, taste, touch).

• Interpretation of Sadhana-Oriented Statements: The book analyzes several profound statements related to spiritual practice in the context of Avashyak texts. These include:

  • Not repeating mistakes is the greatest atonement.
  • Defects are noticed only in moments of flawlessness.
  • True Avashyak is performed by those who control their senses and mind.
  • Virtue arises from self-witnessing, and Vandana, Pratikraman, etc., stem from inner desire.
  • Self-respecting speech awakens the seeker's state.
  • Bhakti (devotion) is experiencing the divine in the present.
  • The recitations for forgiveness, equanimity, friendship, and non-enmity are tools for conquering anger, pride, attachment, and greed, respectively.
  • A cook who cannot provide food as good as they eat should not cook.
  • True forgiveness is forgetting a mistake permanently without being asked.

• Analysis of Transgressions (Atichar): The text identifies specific transgressions from the 125 Atichars that occur in various everyday actions, such as sleeping at night without due care, disrespecting elders, seeing a novice's procession, visiting the Taj Mahal, taking tea at a fixed time and place, eating with relish, not studying at all times, sitting improperly, and experiencing pleasure from cool air.

• Distinctions Between Related Terms: The book clarifies the differences between various pairs of concepts, including:

  • Pagam-shayya and Nigam-shayya (excessive sleep vs. habitual excessive sleep).
  • Charan Shattri and Karan Shattri (70 aspects of conduct vs. 70 aspects of action).
  • Kayotsarg and Kayaklesh (spiritual abandonment of the body vs. physical austerities/afflictions).
  • Shraddha (faith), Pratiti (belief), and Ruchi (liking/inclination).
  • Sankalp (resolution) and Vikalp (doubt/alternative thought).
  • Akale Kao Sajjhaoo and Asajjhaye Sajjhaiyam (studying at the wrong time vs. studying during an inauspicious period).

• Commentary on Key Jain Terms: The text provides explanations for terms like Atharah Hazar Shilanga Rath, Yathajat Mudra, Yapanīya, Shramana, Avagraha, and Nirgrantha Pravachan.

• Avashyak as Spiritual Cleansing: The book analyzes how the Avashyak rituals can be viewed as spiritual bathing, spiritual surgery, and psychological therapy, explaining how each aspect of the Avashyak contributes to purification, healing, and mental well-being.

• Timing of Pratikraman: The text clarifies why both day and night Pratikraman are performed at night, citing scriptural references regarding the timing of pratikraman after sunset and the period of ashayaya (period of non-study).

• Tapas (Austerities) Practiced Through Avashyak: The book identifies which of the 12 types of tapas are directly or indirectly performed through the Avashyak rituals, including kayaklesh, pratisamlinata, prayaschitta, vinaya, swadhyay, dhyana, and kayotsarg.

• Ashatana in Avashyak Sutra vs. Dashashrut Skandha: The text differentiates the concept of ashatana (transgression/disrespect) as described in the Avashyak Sutra (relating to the Tirthankaras) and the Dashashrut Skandha (relating to disrespect towards gurus).

In essence, this book serves as a scholarly and devotional guide to understanding and practicing Pratikraman and related Jain principles with deeper insight, emphasizing the philosophical underpinnings and practical applications of these sacred duties.