Sabhashya Vyavahar Sutra Ashtamoddeshak - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Sabhashya Vyavahar Sutra Ashtamoddeshak," based on the Gujarati sections and the translated Sanskrit/Prakrit sections where available. The text is the eighth chapter (Ashtam Odheshak) of the Vyavahar Sutra, with commentary.

Overall Theme: Rules and Conduct for Ascetics (Monks and Nuns) Regarding Accommodation, Belongings, and Interactions

The Ashtam Odheshak of the Vyavahar Sutra delves into the intricate rules governing the daily life of Jain ascetics, particularly concerning their temporary residences, personal belongings, and interactions with householders and fellow ascetics. The chapter emphasizes meticulousness, adherence to the guru's guidance, and careful consideration for the well-being of all living beings.

Key Topics and Rules Covered:

1. Accommodation (Saya Samtaraka/Saya Samstarak):

Seeking Permission for Residence: Ascetics must seek permission from their guru before settling in any place, especially during the winter and summer months. They must explicitly state the reason for wanting to stay.
Guru's Discretion: The guru has the authority to grant or deny permission. If permission is denied, the ascetic must find another suitable place.
Special Needs: Ascetics with specific needs, such as the elderly or the sick, might be granted special considerations for their seating and sleeping arrangements.
Borrowing and Returning Items: Ascetics often borrow items like mats (pattas) or beds. They must ensure they are returned to the owner in good condition and with permission. Taking items for use without explicit permission is forbidden.
Respecting Householders' Property: Ascetics must not use a householder's belongings without permission. If items are borrowed on the condition of return, they should not be used in another dwelling without a fresh permission.
Handling Disputes: If disputes arise between ascetics over accommodation or the use of items, the elder ascetic (vadhil) is responsible for pacifying both parties and the householder, emphasizing the principle of sharing and avoiding conflict.
Seasonal Adaptations: Specific rules are given for preparing sleeping arrangements during different seasons:
- Monsoon (Varshavasa): Mats must be placed on raised platforms (pattas) if the ground is too cold or damp. Ascetics should seek out mats that can be carried by one hand, even if it means traveling to other villages.
- Winter and Summer (Hemanta and Gimha): Lighter mats are preferred. Ascetics can travel up to three days to find suitable mats.
- Elderly Ascetics: For very elderly ascetics, even lighter mats can be sought from further away, possibly up to five days of travel.
Specific Types of Mats/Bedding (Samstara): The text elaborates on different types of mats and bedding, classifying them as parishati (with covering) and aparishati (without covering). Various types within these categories are discussed, including those made of straw, reeds, wool, etc.
Reasons for Using Mats/Platforms: The text lists valid reasons for using mats or platforms, such as:
- Unsuitable ground (e.g., marshy, uneven, cold).
- Illness or weakness.
- Specific times of the year.
- Protection from insects or harmful substances.
Prohibited and Permitted Use: Strict rules are laid down regarding when and how these items can be used and by whom. For instance, certain types of mats might be prohibited during specific seasons or under certain conditions.
Prohibited Areas for Placement: Ascetics are cautioned against placing their belongings in areas that could cause harm or inconvenience to others or the environment.

2. Personal Belongings and Their Handling:

Finding Lost Items: If an ascetic finds any personal item belonging to another ascetic, they should inquire among their peers to return it. If the owner is unknown, the item should be placed in a suitable, safe location.
Conditions for Taking Items: When taking an item, it should be with the condition of returning it to its owner. If the owner cannot be found, the item should be left in a safe place.
Sharing and Seclusion: The text highlights the importance of not hoarding or exclusively claiming items. If a place is scarce, ascetics should prioritize those who are in need.
Leaving Items Behind: When leaving a place, ascetics must ensure their belongings are not left unattended or in a manner that could cause harm.
Theft and Loss: Rules are provided for situations where an ascetic's belongings are stolen or lost, emphasizing how to proceed and what form of atonement might be required.

3. Ascetic Conduct and Behavior:

Quantity of Food (Alpahari, Madhyam Hari, etc.): The text discusses the concept of portion control in eating, defining categories of ascetics based on the number of morsels (kōḷi) they consume. This ranges from alpāhārī (eating little) to pramāṇāhārī (eating the standard portion) and prakāmabhojī (eating excessively).
Seeking Permission for Actions: Many actions, especially those involving the use of others' property or leaving the designated dwelling, require prior permission from the guru or senior ascetics.
Ethical Considerations: The chapter stresses avoiding attachment to belongings and prioritizing compassion (prāṇadayā).
Types of Companionship: The text distinguishes between ascetics who are accompanied by others (sahāyā) and those who are alone. Rules are adapted based on this, particularly concerning the handling of personal items.
Maintaining Austerity (Kampa, Prakampa, Vikalpa): Different levels of austerity are discussed, particularly in relation to the use of mats and bedding. Certain practices are classified as kampa (basic austerity), prakampa (higher austerity), and vikalpa (deviation or lesser austerity), with associated rules and potential consequences.
Rules for Traveling Monks (Jangama): Specific guidance is provided for ascetics who are traveling or moving from one place to another, especially if they are elderly or infirm.
Interactions with Householders: The text details how ascetics should interact with householders when borrowing items or seeking accommodation, emphasizing politeness and respect.
Types of Relationships (Swagana, Anyagana, Sanvignya, Asanvignya): The rules governing the acceptance and handling of belongings are influenced by the relationship between the ascetics involved (e.g., from the same group, different groups, known individuals, unknown individuals).

4. Commentary and Interpretations (Sabhashya):

The presence of a commentary (bhashya) suggests that the original Sutra's verses are being explained in detail, clarifying their meaning and application in various situations.
The commentary likely addresses nuances, potential disputes, and provides justifications for the strict rules laid down.

In essence, the Ashtam Odheshak of the Vyavahar Sutra is a detailed manual for Jain ascetics, guiding them on how to live a life of detachment, discipline, and adherence to spiritual principles while navigating the practical necessities of daily life and interactions within the lay community and the monastic order. It highlights the Jain emphasis on meticulous conduct, careful consideration of causes and effects, and the importance of the guru's guidance in all matters.