Sadhu Sadhvi Antim Aradhana Vidhi - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sadhu Sadhvi Antim Aradhana Vidhi" in English:

This Jain text, "Sadhu Sadhvi Antim Aradhana Vidhi," authored by Dipratnasagar and Deepratnasagar, and published by Abhinav Shrut Prakashan, outlines the procedures and rituals to be performed for the final rites and spiritual preparation of Jain monks (Sadhu) and nuns (Sadhvi) facing the end of their lives, particularly those with prolonged illness or in a critical state.

The book details a specific ritualistic sequence, emphasizing the importance of performing these rites while the individual is still conscious. The key components of this final veneration are as follows:

1. Initial Preparations and Invocation:

Application of Sacred Powder: The spiritual preceptor (Gurudev) applies a consecrated powder (choorn) to the head of the ailing Sadhu or Sadhvi.
Chaiyavandan (Salutation to the Temple/Idol): The Gurudev, along with the Chaturvidh Sangha (four types of Jain community: Sadhus, Sadhvis, Shravaks, and Shravikas), stands before the idol of a Jin (Tirthankara). They then lead the ailing person in devotional prayers and Chaiyavandan.

2. Series of Kayotsarg (Self-Discipline/Meditation): Following the Chaiyavandan, a series of five specific Kayotsargs are performed, each aimed at venerating different divine or spiritual entities:

Kayotsarg for Shantinath: This involves reciting "Karemi Kaussagg..." and completing a "Laguss" (a specific duration of meditation), followed by a prayer for peace and tranquility.
Kayotsarg for the Shasan Devta (Guardian Deity of Jainism): This involves a shorter meditation (one Navkar) and a prayer for the divine protector's assistance in fulfilling aspirations.
Kayotsarg for the Kshetra Devta (Guardian Deity of the specific region): Similar to the Shasan Devta, this involves a short meditation and a prayer for the regional deity to bring happiness.
Kayotsarg for the Bhavan Devta (Deity of the dwelling/temple): Again, a short meditation and a prayer for the dwelling's deity to bestow auspiciousness and well-being.
Kayotsarg for Vayyavachkaran (Service of the sick) and Samyaktva (Right Faith): This Kayotsarg focuses on the spiritual well-being of those serving the sick and the maintenance of right faith, praying for obstacles to be removed.

3. Further Devotional Practices:

Namotthunam: After the five Kayotsargs, the ritual continues with reciting "Namotthunam" (a significant Jain prayer of respect and homage).
Ajit Shanti Stavan: This is followed by reciting a specific hymn of peace and victory.
Kayotsarg for the Adhishthayika Devi (Presiding Deity of Veneration): A Kayotsarg is performed for the goddess presiding over the act of veneration, followed by a prayer seeking the removal of obstacles.
Visarjan (Immersion/Concluding Ritual): Finally, a ritualistic "visarjan" or concluding rite is performed for the idol.

4. Aalochna (Confession of Sins): The next crucial step is the confession of sins, performed while the ailing person is seated.

Detailed Confession: The Gurudev guides the ailing individual to confess all their transgressions and impurities accumulated since childhood.
Concise Confession (if full confession is not possible): If a detailed confession is not feasible due to their condition, a concise confession is made using specific verses from the "Samachari" (a Jain scripture), acknowledging sins committed knowingly or unknowingly. This includes the famous "Michchhami Dukkaḍam" (May my mistakes be forgiven).
Specific Sins Mentioned: The confession covers sins related to:
- Minds, words, and actions.
- Regret for wrong actions performed by oneself or caused through others.
- Renunciation of any attachment to the body, wealth, family, possessions, knowledge, or any living being that might have been harmful.
- Letting go of any past physical forms or worldly attachments.

5. Kshamaapan (Seeking and Granting Forgiveness): After the confession, the ritual shifts to seeking and granting forgiveness from all beings.

Forgiveness from the Sangha: Forgiveness is sought from the four types of the Jain community (Sadhu, Sadhvi, Shravak, Shravika) for any disrespect or offense caused through mind, speech, or action.
Forgiveness from Spiritual Leaders: Forgiveness is sought from Acharyas, Upadhyayas, disciples, fellow monks, families, and ganas (groups of monks) for any anger or negative emotions.
Universal Forgiveness: The ailing person is encouraged to offer forgiveness to all beings and to seek forgiveness from them with a stable mind, establishing friendship with all and harboring no enmity.

6. Reaffirmation of Faith and Vows:

Samyaktva Uchcharavan (Reaffirmation of Right Faith): The ailing individual reaffirms their belief in the Arhants as their gods, the Su-sadhus as their gurus, and the teachings of the Jin as their dharma. This is done by reciting the Navkar mantra and specific verses, ideally three times.
Sarva Virati Samayik Uchcharavan (Reaffirmation of Universal Renunciation/Samayik): The practice of "Samayik" (a period of spiritual discipline) is reaffirmed, renouncing all sinful activities. This is also done with the Navkar mantra.
Vrata Uchcharavan (Reaffirmation of Vows): The five Mahavratas (Great Vows) and the sixth vow of abstaining from night-eating are reaffirmed, ideally three times each with the Navkar mantra. This involves reciting verses related to non-violence, truthfulness, not stealing, chastity (or celibacy for monks/nuns), and non-possession, and the vow against night-eating.

7. Taking Refuge and Renouncing Sins:

Chaar Sharana Grahan (Acceptance of Four Refuges): The individual is guided to take refuge in the Arhants, Siddhas, Acharyas, and the teachings of the Jin.
Atharas Papasthanak Vosiravavu (Renunciation of Eighteen Sinful States): A formal renunciation is made of the eighteen categories of sinful actions and tendencies.

8. Anashan (Fasting/Voluntary Cessation of Food):

Voluntary Fasting: The text suggests initiating voluntary fasting, either by gradually abstaining from food for a specified period or by making controlled vows to achieve the benefits of complete fasting.

9. Continuous Recitation of the Navkar Mantra:

Constant Remembrance: The most important aspect at the very end is to continue reciting the Navkar mantra to the ailing person. Even if the person is completely unconscious, the constant recitation of this mantra is considered highly beneficial.

10. Final Encouragement and Blessings:

Optional Teachings: If appropriate, words of renunciation or devotional hymns and songs can be recited to the ailing person.
Purpose: The overall aim of this ritual is to facilitate a "pandit maran" (wise death) – a death attained with consciousness and proper spiritual preparation.

Separate Section for Shravak-Shravika (Lay Disciples): The text also provides guidance for lay disciples facing their final moments. While largely similar to the rituals for monks and nuns, there are key differences:

No "Karemi Bhante" Recitation: Lay disciples do not recite the "Karemi Bhante" part, which signifies the vow of a fully renounced monk.
Modification of Vows: Instead of the five Mahavratas, lay disciples are guided to reaffirm their vows according to their capacity, potentially within the framework of the twelve vows of a lay disciple.
Simplified Rituals: If the full ritual is not possible, simplified procedures include confessing any lapses in knowledge, faith, conduct, austerity, and effort; seeking forgiveness from the Sangha and all beings; repenting for the eighteen sinful states; accepting the four refuges; developing positive thoughts for the religion and liberation; undertaking new vows and restrictions; renouncing possessions and worldly attachments; and finally, constant remembrance and listening to the Navkar mantra.

In essence, "Sadhu Sadhvi Antim Aradhana Vidhi" serves as a comprehensive guide for spiritual practitioners and their preceptors to navigate the profound and sacred period of a monk's or nun's passing, ensuring their final moments are filled with devotion, repentance, and a reaffirmation of their Jain faith.