Pravrujyavidhankulama - Book Summary

Certainly, here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Pravrajyavidhankulama" by Jinendrasuri, based on the provided catalog link and page content:

Book Title: Pravrajyavidhankulama (श्री प्रवृज्याविधानकुलकम्) Author: Jinendrasuri (श्री विजयजिनेन्द्रसूरीश्वरः is listed as the editor and successor of Jinendrasuri, implying Jinendrasuri is the original author) Publisher: Harshpushpamrut Jain Granthmala (श्री हर्षपुष्यामृत जैन ग्रन्थमाला)

Overview:

"Pravrajyavidhankulama" is a Jain text that meticulously details the rituals, principles, and profound significance of Pravrajya, the initiation into asceticism or monasticism within Jainism. The text emphasizes the extreme rarity and arduousness of attaining human birth and then qualifying for such a sacred and transformative spiritual path. It is presented with commentary and editorial work by esteemed Jain scholars, Pujyapadacharya Shri Vijaykapoor Surishwar and Pujyacharya Dev Shri Vijayamrut Surishwar, with further assistance and publication by Pujyacharya Dev Shri Vijayajinendra Surishwar. The publication is a testament to the dedication of the Harshpushpamrut Jain Granthmala in preserving and disseminating ancient Jain literature.

Core Themes and Content:

The text, as indicated by its title and the fragmented content, focuses on the Vidhi (procedure/method) of Pravrajya (initiation). It is structured around a series of "doors" or sections that systematically explore various aspects of this spiritual journey. The provided pages primarily detail the first "door" concerning the Rarity of Human Birth (मनुष्यत्वं दुर्लभं), followed by subsequent discussions on the difficulty of attaining Right Faith/Knowledge (बोधिदुर्लभता) and the Arduousness of Pravrajya itself (प्रव्रज्यादुरापत्वं).

Key Sections and Concepts Covered (based on the detailed index and content):

Rarity of Human Birth (मनुष्यत्वं दुर्लभं): This is a foundational theme, highlighting the immense fortune of being born as a human, which is considered the most precious and conducive state for spiritual progress and liberation. The text likely uses various anecdotes and analogies to illustrate this rarity. The detailed Brahmadatta story on pages 10-18 is a prime example of such an illustration, recounting the complex life and spiritual journey of King Brahmadatta, emphasizing the myriad obstacles and challenges faced.
Difficulty of Attaining Right Faith/Knowledge (बोधिदुर्लभता): Even with human birth, attaining Bodhi (right faith, understanding, and knowledge of the true path as taught by the Jinas) is exceptionally difficult. This section likely explores the rarity of encountering enlightened beings (like Tirthankaras and their disciples), the influence of past karma, and the necessity of a pure mind to grasp the subtle truths of Jainism. The stories of Rishabhadeva (pages 36-45) and Udayin's story (pages 49-50) are presented as examples.
Arduousness of Pravrajya (प्रव्रज्यादुरापत्वं): This section delves into the challenges and sacrifices involved in the actual act of renunciation and adopting the ascetic life. It likely covers:
- The nature of the vows (व्रत): The text elaborates on the five great vows (Mahavratas) and their strict observance, including the difficulties in their practice.
- The life of an ascetic: Details on the rigorous practices, austerities (Tapas), disciplined conduct (Achara), and adherence to ancient texts are likely discussed.
- Overcoming obstacles: The text likely describes various challenges like extreme hunger, thirst, cold, heat, insect bites, natural calamities, societal disapproval, and internal struggles (kashayas, desires). The detailed sections on doshas (faults/impurities) related to alms-taking (e.g., aadhakarma, audeshika, puritkrita, parityakta, parivartita, etc. – pages 66-88) illustrate the meticulousness required.
- Examples of Great Ascetics: The text presents numerous illustrative stories of past saints and ascetics who heroically endured immense hardships to uphold their vows and achieve spiritual realization. These include the stories of Brahmadatta, Chilati-putra, Jemba, Harikeshi, Shubhadatta, Deva Datta, Agad Datta, Shraman Bhadra, Vajra Muni, Sthulabhadra, Sanghamitra, Rishabhadeva, and many others. These stories serve as a guide and inspiration.
The Nature and Importance of the Vows: The text emphasizes that the five great vows (Mahavratas) are the very essence of the ascetic path, requiring constant vigilance and discipline.
The Role of Austerities (Tapas): The text highlights the importance of various forms of austerity, both external and internal, in purifying the soul and progressing towards liberation.
The Significance of Delusion (Moh): The text likely discusses how delusive karma (Mohaniya Karma) is the root cause of suffering and attachment, and its eradication is a primary goal of asceticism.
The Ultimate Goal: Liberation: The ultimate aim of Pravrajya and all the associated disciplines is Moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).

Editorial and Scholarly Contribution:

The publication is notable for its scholarly editing and commentary by revered Acharyas. This suggests that the text is presented with explanations and interpretations that make its profound spiritual teachings accessible to a wider audience.

Overall Purpose:

The "Pravrajyavidhankulama" serves as a comprehensive manual and inspirational guide for aspiring ascetics and for all Jains seeking to understand the sanctity and rigor of the monastic path. It underscores that true spiritual progress, particularly the attainment of Pravrajya and subsequent liberation, is a result of immense spiritual merit, diligent practice, and overcoming profound challenges. The text aims to instill a deep sense of reverence for the path of renunciation and the lives of the enlightened ones.