Ratnamala

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Ratnamala" by Acharya Shivkoti, with Hindi commentary by Muni Shri Suvidhisagarji Maharaj and edited by Aryika Shri Suvidhimati Mataji and Aryika Shri Suyogmati Mataji, based on the provided text:

Title: Ratnamala (Garland of Jewels)

Author: Acharya Shivkoti Ji Maharaj

Commentary (Hindi): Muni Shri Suvidhisagar Ji Maharaj

Editors: Aryika Shri Suvidhimati Mataji and Aryika Shri Suyogmati Mataji

Publisher: Suvidhi Gyana Chandrika Prakashan Sanstha, Aurangabad

Overview and Purpose:

The "Ratnamala" is a concise yet profound Jain text that expounds upon the principles and practices of Shravakacharya (the conduct of a lay follower). In an era of increasing sensory indulgence and violence, the text emphasizes the importance of Charananuyoga (the study of conduct) as a means to uplift humanity and guide householders towards spiritual truth. The commentary by Muni Shri Suvidhisagarji Maharaj aims to make the text accessible to a wider audience, providing clarity and referencing numerous other Jain scriptures to enrich the reader's understanding.

Key Themes and Content:

The "Ratnamala" serves as a comprehensive guide for Jain householders, covering various aspects of their spiritual and daily lives. The summary below highlights the major topics discussed in the text, often drawing from the commentary's explanations:

1. Introduction and Importance of Charananuyoga:

   • The text begins by lamenting the current societal decay characterized by unchecked sensory desires and increasing violence.
   • It asserts that Charananuyoga is the primary need of the present age, capable of restoring humanity by redirecting the minds of householders towards the divine.
   • Charananuyoga is defined as the scripture that leads to the origin, growth, and protection of the conduct of both householders and ascetics.

2. The Name "Ratnamala":

   • The word "Ratna" (jewel) refers to that which is excellent in its own category. In the path of liberation, Samyagdarshan (right faith), Samyagjnana (right knowledge), and Samyakcharitra (right conduct) are the main "jewels."
   • "Ratnamala" signifies a string of these excellent practices for householders, making the name apt.
   • The text confirms its name and author, Shivkoti, through a concluding verse that promises attainment of "Shivkotitva" (a state of great spiritual attainment) for those who read it with pure intention.

3. Praise of Tirthankaras and Acharyas:

   • The text commences with veneration of Lord Mahavir, the Arhat Vachana (teachings of the Arhat), Acharya Sidhsen Diwakar, and Swami Samantabhadra.
   • Each verse dedicated to these revered figures highlights their specific qualities:
     • Lord Mahavir (Veer): Described as omniscient, the master of speech, and the destroyer of Kama's pride.
     • Arhat Vachana: Praised as the essence of all essences, supremely worthy of reverence, and inherently possessing Anekanta (non-absolutism).
     • Acharya Sidhsen: Honored for his immaculate glory, devotion to meditation, and position as a great preceptor.
     • Swami Samantabhadra: Revered as the moon of the Jain doctrine, illuminating the path for the followers of Jainism.

4. The Path of Householders:

   • The text acknowledges the absence of Tirthankaras in the current era and promises to explain the practices that enable householders to shine in their lives.
   • Importance of Samyagdarshan: It is declared as the most beneficial for all beings and the root of all vows. Without it, vows do not lead to liberation.
   • Definition of True God (Sudev) and True Scripture (Sashastra): Jinendra (Tirthankaras) are identified as the true God, described as without limitations, full of pure consciousness and bliss, eternal, and free from all defects. True scripture is that which is spoken by them.
   • Nature of a True Ascetic (Sadhu/Guru): A true ascetic is depicted as one who is Digambara (clad in sky), without worldly attachments (nirarambha), seeking eternal bliss, promoting Dharma, and burning away karma.

5. Core Jain Practices for Householders:

   • The Twelve Vows: The text enumerates the five Anuvratas (minor vows), three Gunavratas (augmenting vows), and four Shikshavratas (disciplinary vows).
     • Five Anuvratas: Non-violence (Ahimsa), truthfulness (Satya), non-stealing (Achaurya), celibacy (Brahmacharya), and non-possession (Aparigraha). The text explains the essence of each vow.
     • Three Gunavratas: Restrictions on direction (Digvrata), time and objects of enjoyment (Bhogopabhoga Pariman), and avoidance of purposeless harm (Anarthadanda Virati). The text details the significance and practice of each.
     • Four Shikshavratas: Samayika (equanimity), Proshadhopavasa (fasting on auspicious days), Atithi-pujan (venerating visiting ascetics), and Sallekhana (controlled intentional fasting towards death).
   • Eight Fundamental Qualities (Ashta Mulguna): These include the abstention from alcohol (Madyam), meat (Mansam), and honey (Madhu), along with the five Anuvratas. For children, the abstention from the three M-kars and five Udambara fruits is mentioned.
   • Purity of Water: Detailed instructions are given on filtering water, its permissible duration, and the concept of Prasuka water. The text also discusses the suitability of water from various sources.
   • Eleven Stages of Householder Practice (Ekadasa Pratima): The text outlines eleven progressive stages of spiritual discipline for lay followers, starting from Darshan Pratima (stage of right faith) to Uddishta Tyaga Pratima (stage of abstaining from offerings not specifically prepared for ascetics).
   • Forbidden Items (Abhakshya): A list of items that should be abstained from, including items in leather containers, butter, and certain types of vegetables.
   • Monastic Life in the Kali Yuga: The text addresses the current practice of monks residing in monasteries or villages rather than forests, emphasizing that such practices are suitable for the current era and are supported by scriptures.
   • Obligations towards Ascetics: It details the types of items that should be donated to ascetics, such as books, whisks (picchika), and water vessels, explaining how such donations lead to liberation.
   • The Fruits of Charity (Dana): The text elaborates on the benefits of charity, particularly in cleansing the sins accumulated through daily householder activities.
   • Types of Charity: Four types of charity are described: Ahar Dana (food donation), Abhaya Dana (fearlessness donation), Aushadh Dana (medicine donation), and Shastra Dana (scripture donation).
   • Importance of Vow Maintenance (Vrata Palan): The text stresses the importance of diligently protecting one's vows, as even adherence to a single vow can lead to divine achievements.
   • Fruits of Specific Vows: The text outlines the benefits derived from upholding the vows of non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, and celibacy, including achieving victory in battles, gaining prosperity, and attaining spiritual bliss.
   • Fruits of Avoiding Desires (Parigraha): It highlights that by curbing excessive desires, one can reduce the cycle of rebirth and attain liberation.
   • Fruits of Abstaining from 'M' items: The abstinence from alcohol, meat, and honey is emphasized, with a story illustrating the immense merit gained by abstaining from crow meat alone.
   • The Evils of Alcohol (Madyadosha): The text details the severe physical, mental, and social consequences of alcohol consumption, emphasizing its role as a root cause of sin.
   • Condemnation of Addictions (Vyasan Ninda): The text condemns all addictions, especially the seven principal vices (gambling, meat-eating, drinking, prostitution, illicit relations, hunting, and theft), stating that even showing respect for them leads to hell.
   • Benefits of Abstaining from Night Meals: The text explains the religious and health benefits of refraining from eating at night, linking it to prosperity and spiritual progress.
   • Merits of Chanting the Namokar Mantra: The profound benefits of remembering the Namokar Mantra are discussed, including protection from dangers, diseases, and negative influences.
   • Daily and Occasional Rituals (Nitya-Naimittika Kriya): The text outlines the importance of performing daily obligatory practices like worship, serving gurus, and study, as well as specific rituals observed on certain days like Ashtami, Chaturdashi, and Nandishwar Parva.
   • Qualities of a Householder Ascetic (Grihasthacharya): The text describes the characteristics of an ideal householder who adheres to scriptural injunctions.
   • The Practice of Meditation (Dhyana): The text encourages constant meditation on the self, described as pure consciousness, the supreme light, and the source of omniscience.
   • Liberation from Suffering: It explains how a householder who cultivates inner spiritual awareness while outwardly fulfilling their worldly duties can achieve liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
   • Distinguishing Right from Wrong (Kartavyakartavya): The text advises following practices that lead to the accumulation of good karma and avoiding those that lead to sin or are mere fabricated rituals.
   • Prohibition of Supporting False Doctrines (Mithyamata Nishedh): The text sternly warns against supporting or honoring Buddhist, Charvaka, Sankhya, and other heterodox philosophical schools, as this does not contribute to merit.
   • Adherence to Dharma and Moral Codes: It emphasizes the importance of maintaining one's own and respecting others' moral codes. Vows, even when combined with extensive knowledge or austerity, are deemed worthless if they violate ethical boundaries.
   • The Glory of Vow Observance: The text highlights that a householder who diligently protects their vows and performs daily rituals is revered by deities and respected by the wise.
   • The Importance of Penance (Prayashchitta): When vows are violated, it is crucial to seek and faithfully follow the penance prescribed by the Guru to purify oneself.
   • Jain Way of Life: The text defines Jain practices as those that are esteemed by virtuous individuals, do not compromise right faith, and do not break vows.
   • Concluding Benediction: The text concludes with a blessing, stating that reading the "Ratnamala" with a pure heart leads to spiritual fulfillment and attainment.

Overall Message:

"Ratnamala" serves as a foundational text for Jain householders, offering practical guidance for a righteous life. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of worldly duties with spiritual progress, advocating for sincere adherence to vows, righteous conduct, devotion, and charity as pathways to liberation and a well-lived life. The commentary ensures that these teachings are understood in their proper context, drawing from the rich tapestry of Jain scripture.