Sadguru Evam Unke Saniddhya Ka Labh

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sadguru evam Unke Saniddhya ka Labh" (The Benefit of a True Guru and Their Proximity) by Pavankumar Jain, based on the provided pages:

The article, "Sadguru evam Unke Saniddhya ka Labh," by Pavankumar Jain, emphasizes the indispensable role of a Sadguru (True Guru) in both practical and spiritual life, drawing heavily from Jain Agamas.

The Centrality of the Guru: The text begins by stating that in Indian tradition, the guru holds a pivotal position. Just as a balance's fulcrum is central to its function, the Guru acts as the central element connecting the three core tenets of Jain culture: God (Dev), Guru, and Dharma (Religion). Without a true Guru, one cannot understand the true nature of God and Dharma. In practical life, advice from someone experienced is crucial for success; similarly, in spirituality, a Guru is essential.

Defining the Guru: The word "Guru" is explained etymologically: "Gu" signifies darkness, and "Ru" signifies light. Therefore, a Guru is one who leads from darkness to light. Another interpretation states that a Guru is one who reveals true knowledge and establishes an intimate connection with liberation (Moksha). The text quotes scriptures defining a Guru as one who imparts religious teachings, destroys ignorance with the light of knowledge, and is praised by celestial beings. Jain Agamas use terms like Acharya, Buddha, Dharmacharya, and Upadhyaya for a Guru.

Qualities of a True Guru (Sadguru): The article meticulously outlines the qualities that identify a Sadguru, citing various Jain scriptures:

• Knowledge of Sutra and Artha: A Sadguru possesses profound knowledge of both the literal (Sutra) and the deeper, intended meaning (Artha) of scriptures.
• Excellent Virtues: They are characterized by superior qualities.
• Pillar of the Sangh: They are like a central support for the monastic community (Sangh).
• Liberator from Suffering: They are capable of freeing their community from all forms of distress.
• Guiding Disciple: They impart the profound meanings of scriptures to their disciples.
• Adherence to Vows (Vrata): An Acharya is one through whom vows are practiced.
• Dispeller of Delusion: Like a lamp dispelling darkness, a Guru dispels the darkness of delusion through the principles of the Three Jewels (Ratnatraya – Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct).

Specific Virtues and Conduct: The text details numerous virtues and conduct expected of a Sadguru:

• Thirty-six Virtues: A Sadguru embodies thirty-six specific virtues, including control over the five senses, observance of nine restraints (Guptis), victory over the four passions (Kashayas), adherence to the five great vows (Mahavratas), practice of the five types of conduct (Acharas), observance of the five restraints (Samitis), and the three restraints (Guptis).
• Mulas and Uttaragunas: These are categorized as root virtues (Mulas) like the five Mahavratas and branch virtues (Uttaragunas) that protect the root virtues. For lay followers (Shravakas), the five vows are Mulagunas.
• Complete Surrender (Sarvato-bhavena Samarpan): A Sadguru always acts in accordance with the teachings of the Tirthankaras, never prioritizing personal desires. Their life motto is "no appeal in command, no questions in surrender."
• Knower of Discrimination (Bhed-vigyan): They differentiate the soul from the body and external objects, remaining absorbed in their true self. They face physical suffering with equanimity, recognizing it as belonging to the body, not the soul.
• Vigilant Ascetic (Apramatta Sadhak): They are extremely diligent in their spiritual practice, starting their day early and dedicating time to self-reflection, always avoiding negligence (pramada).
• Disinterestedness (Nisprihata): They are free from attachment, ego, possessiveness, and the desire for worldly recognition or titles. Their focus is on maintaining the purity of their spiritual path.
• Patience and Endurance (Sahanshilta): They face adverse and challenging situations with calmness and cheerfulness, willingly embracing hardship as a means to shed karmas.
• Appreciator of Virtues (Gunagrahi): They treat everyone with affection and respect, regardless of their background. They appreciate the virtues of others, irrespective of their lineage or sect.
• Simplicity (Saralta): Their actions match their words. They are straightforward, honest, and free from deceit. This purity of heart is essential for spiritual progress.
• Non-Sectarianism (Asampradayikta): While recognizing the importance of monastic orders (sampradayas) for the preservation and propagation of Jain teachings, a Sadguru fosters a spirit of universal brotherhood, treating all beings with compassion and kindness. They prioritize the well-being of all living beings, mirroring the teachings of Lord Mahavira.
• Life-Builder (Jeevan-Nirmata): In the absence of Tirthankaras and other exalted beings, Sadgurus bear the responsibility of guiding the four-fold monastic community. They are referred to as "Param Pita" (Supreme Father) because they show the path to liberation. They are distinguished from mere holders of the title of Acharya by their virtuous conduct.
• Proper Use of Powers (Prapt Shaktio ka Sadupayog): True Gurus utilize their innate spiritual powers (knowledge, wealth, and influence, though not in a worldly sense) for the welfare of themselves and others.
• Discipline-Oriented (Anushasan Priy): They emphasize self-discipline, believing it to be the lifeblood of spiritual progress and the destroyer of sins. They lead by example and ensure the community adheres to discipline.

How to Benefit from the Proximity of a Sadguru: The article then shifts to how one can truly benefit from the company of a Sadguru:

• Veneration of the Guru (Guru Vandan): The practice of venerating the Guru is present in all religions and is crucial in Jainism. The lack of proper reverence can lead to spiritual decline, as exemplified by the story of Nandanmanihar in the Gyata-dharmakathanaga Sutra. Even mere darshan (sight) of a Guru can transform a life, as seen in the story of Mrigaputra.

• The Four Pillars of Benefit: To derive the full benefit from a Sadguru, four essential qualities are required:

  1. Curiosity (Jigyasa): A genuine desire to learn and ask questions about spiritual matters. This leads to deeper understanding and prolonged association with the Guru.
  2. Humility (Namrata): This is the most crucial virtue. Humility fosters a receptive attitude, allows for the acceptance of teachings, and is essential for receiving the Guru's grace. Serving the Guru through various means (like offering suitable food) is a form of service that leads to significant karmic merit, including the binding of Tirthankara-naming karma.
  3. Disciplehood (Shishyattva): This involves possessing qualities like eagerness for knowledge, contentment, a humble demeanor, and the practice of true conduct. It's about adopting the mindset of a student who is teachable and receptive.
  4. Surrender (Samarpan): This means complete, understanding, and unwavering devotion to the Guru, not blind adherence. It involves accepting all circumstances and teachings without reservation.

• Five Observances (Dravya Abhigam): In addition to the four bhavas (qualitative aspects), five material observances are also important when approaching a Guru:

  1. Renunciation of living (Sanchitta) items.
  2. Discrimination with non-living (Achitta) items.
  3. Wearing proper attire (Uttarasanga).
  4. Joining hands in reverence (Kar Jod/Vandana).
  5. Concentration of mind (Man ki Ekagrata).

Conclusion: The article concludes by reiterating that by following these four bhavas and five observances, one can truly benefit from the proximity of a Sadguru, leading to the cessation of worldly suffering and the attainment of liberation. The text emphasizes that without a Guru, true knowledge, liberation, and the understanding of truth are impossible.