Pravachansara Piyush Part 3 - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of "Pravachansara Piyush Part 3: Charana-anuyog-soochak Chulika," authored by Kundkundacharya, with commentary by Amritchandracharya and edited/translated by Himmatlal Jethalal Shah. The book is published by Grand Rapid America Mumukshu Mandal America. The summary focuses on the content as presented in the provided pages, particularly the initial sections introducing the text and the commentary on the initial verses.

Book Overview and Publisher:

Title: Pravachansara Piyush Part 3: Charana-anuyog-soochak Chulika
Authors: Kundkundacharya (original text), Amritchandracharya (commentary)
Editor/Translator: Himmatlal Jethalal Shah
Publisher: Grand Rapid America Mumukshu Mandal America
Publication Details: First Edition, 500 copies, published in V.S. 2062 / A.D. 2006. Price: Rs. 10.
Computer E-book: Infossoft Services, Rajkot.
Printing: Shivani Computers-Printers and Kitab Ghar Printary, Rajkot.

Core Philosophy and Purpose (Introduction):

The introduction emphasizes the profound importance of the Pravachanasara scripture, highlighting the divine knowledge received by Kundkundacharya from Lord Simandhar Swami in Mahavideh Kshetra. It also acknowledges the crucial role of Amritchandracharya's commentary in elucidating the deep meanings and the significant contribution of Kahan Gurudev and Pujya Behanshri in propagating Jain teachings in the current era. The text aims to guide individuals who have strayed from the right path in this "Dushamkal" (an era of spiritual decline) back to the true spiritual path.

The preface reflects on the authors' own journey of spiritual seeking, inspired by their Gurudev and Bhagvati Mata. They describe an intense period of study that brought the essence of spiritual learning to their doorstep, making them feel blessed by the presence of enlightened souls. The text aims to systematize the fundamental principles of Jainism for the benefit of those seeking genuine knowledge, particularly those living abroad who might be disconnected from these teachings.

Key Themes from the Introduction and Early Commentary:

The Importance of Scriptures: The authors stress that all seeking souls (Mumukshu) should study the original scriptures of the Acharyas. Pujya Gurudev's lectures provided the methodology and keys to understanding these scriptures, offering guidance to those wishing to study them. The importance of centering scripture study around the pure soul (Shuddhatma) is also emphasized.
Pravachanasara's Difficulty and Importance: While the study of Pravachanasara among the Paramagamas is considered challenging, Pandit Himmatbhai's emphasis on its study is deemed appropriate. The text is presented to help seekers achieve their ultimate welfare.
Charana-anuyog-soochak Chulika: This specific part of the Pravachanasara (the third scripture section) focuses on Charana-anuyog, which pertains to conduct and practice. It explains the inner state of a monk according to Jinendra's teachings, corresponding external actions, and the nature of auspicious consciousness.
Content of Charana-anuyog-soochak Chulika: The Chulika expounds upon:
- The Jain ritual of initiation.
- The natural state of external actions aligning with internal states.
- The 28 fundamental vows (Moolgun).
- Internal and external restrictions (Chhed).
- The prohibition of certain possessions (Upadhi-nishech).
- Principles of moderation in diet and conduct (Yukta-ahar-vihar).
- The path to liberation through concentration (Ekagrata).
- The conduct of monks towards each other.
- The relationship between actions/feelings and the pure soul (Atmadravya).
The Authors' Approach: The commentary by the two Acharyas is described as miraculous. They integrate the study of Charana-anuyog with the focus on the Soul (Atmadravya) and the resulting internal purity, making even subjects like conduct (Acharan) feel like a soothing spiritual song. Their words, steeped in the nectar of experience, are seen as transformative, making every topic they touch sweet, cool, and blissful.

Specific Commentary on Early Verses (Gatha 201-204):

Gatha 201: This verse initiates the topic by emphasizing the need to bow to the Siddhas, Tirthankaras (Jinvar Vrishabh), and mendicants (Shramana) if one desires liberation from suffering. It calls for the acceptance of "Shramanya" (monkhood). The commentary explains this as a call to embrace the path of asceticism after taking refuge in the Panch Parmesthis (the five supreme beings).
Gatha 202: This verse details the actions of a disciple preparing for monkhood. It describes leaving family (brothers, wife, children, elders) and embracing the five cardinal virtues (Jainachara, Darshanachara, Charitra-achara, Tapachara, Viryachara). The commentary highlights the internal state of knowledge, detachment, and faith, and the aspirant's regret over their unstable current worldly existence while their knowledge and detachment are strong.
Gatha 203: This verse describes the ideal preceptor (Guru) for spiritual initiation. The disciple seeks a muni who is virtuous, honored, and a source of inspiration. The commentary elaborates on the characteristics of a qualified guru, including their mastery in practice and their ability to guide others. The description of qualities like "kulavishisht" (high lineage) and "gunadhyaya" (full of virtues) is discussed.
Gatha 204: This verse focuses on the concept of "Yathajat Roopdhar," meaning to adopt a form natural to oneself. The commentary explains this as the soul's inherent state of purity, free from the influence of passions (Kashay). The text delves into the speaker's (Shraman) understanding of their pure soul, distinct from the physical body (five senses, mind). The detachment from the physical body is emphasized as essential for spiritual progress.

Key Philosophical Concepts Introduced:

Nishchaya-Vyavahar: The interplay between ultimate truth (Nishchaya) and conventional truth (Vyavahar) is a recurring theme, showing how actions and internal states are viewed in relation to the soul's true nature.
Atmadravya: The Soul is the central focus, with all actions and practices being examined for their connection to the Soul's essence.
Charana-anuyog: This section of Jain philosophy, focusing on conduct and practice, is being detailed.
Panch Parmesthi: The five supreme beings (Siddha, Arihant, Acharya, Upadhyay, Sadhu) are revered as guides and inspirations.
Moolgun: The 28 fundamental vows are a part of the outward conduct that reflects inner purity.
Samyak Darshan, Samyak Gyan, Samyak Charitra: These are the foundational pillars of the spiritual path.
Yathajat Roop: The natural, untainted state of the soul.
The Importance of Renunciation: The text implies a strong emphasis on detachment from worldly possessions and relationships as a path to spiritual liberation.

This summary covers the introductory material and the initial commentary, laying the groundwork for the detailed exploration of Charana-anuyog within the Pravachanasara.