Sadhumaryadapattaksangraha

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sadhumaryadapattaksangraha" based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Sadhumaryadapattaksangraha (Collection of Monastic Codes/Ordinances) Author(s): Compiled/Edited by Muni Mahabodhivijay, guided by various Acharyas. Publisher: Shri Jinshasan Aradhana Trust Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/023487/1

Overall Purpose and Content:

"Sadhumaryadapattaksangraha" is a compilation of various "pattakas" (codes, ordinances, or sets of rules) created by different esteemed Jain Acharyas throughout history. These pattakas are primarily aimed at maintaining discipline, proper conduct, and the ethical framework within the monastic community (Sangha) and for the followers. The text addresses issues related to monastic behavior, inter-sect relationships, adherence to scriptures, and the overall well-being and proper functioning of the Jain tradition. The compilation highlights the efforts of various Acharyas to uphold the sanctity of the monastic path and provide guidance for future generations.

Key Themes and Sections:

1. Introduction and Motivation (Page 1, 5): The book begins by stating its purpose is to resolve disputes and clarify interpretations of the "seven points" (seven balls/concepts) introduced by Jagadguru Shri Hirvijaysuri. It aims to prevent discord and ensure correct understanding and practice of monastic codes. The compilation is presented as a collection of "pattakas" authored by various Acharya Bhagawants, sometimes referred to by other terms like "samachari," "kriyoddhar niyamapatra," or "bol."

2. Types of Pattakas (Page 6-7): The introduction categorizes pattakas into three main types:

   • Samachari Pattaka: These are rules and regulations established to curb laxity (shithilachar) in the Sangha or community and to strengthen discipline. They are often referred to as "kriyoddhar" (restoration of practice) in the past. Most of the pattakas in this collection fall into this category.
   • Prarupana Pattaka: These are created when two religious preachers have differing views on a subject and their discussions lead to disputes in the community. An elder Acharya studies these differing views and provides a definitive conclusion and guidance for practice.
   • Samudaya Vyavastha Pattaka: These are regulations established by the head of a large community for its smooth functioning and to prevent division during their absence. The compilation notes that such pattakas are less common in ancient literature but are seen in some communities today.

3. Historical Context and Significance (Page 7-8): The compilation focuses primarily on "Samachari Pattakas," with a particular emphasis on those from the Tapagachchha lineage. It acknowledges that similar pattakas were created in other lineages as well, including two from the Kharatragachchha tradition. The text suggests that the creation of such pattakas increased significantly in the last five to six centuries. It mentions that the earliest known pattaka might be from Acharya Jagachandrasuri of the Tapagachchha, although it is currently unavailable. Several other pattakas are mentioned as being referenced by later Acharyas but are not found today.

4. Specific Pattakas and Their Content (Pages 8-13, and detailed sections later):

   • Shri Somasundarsuri's "Samachari Kulak": Though considered a small collection of rules for personal practice, it's included due to its utility and mention by later Acharyas. It outlines rules for daily study, recitation, observance of festivals, service to elders, and strict adherence to practices like iryasamiti (mindful movement) and bhāshāsamiti (mindful speech).
   • Shri Anandavimalsuri's Pattaka (33 points): Created to curb laxity in the community, it contains rules for monastic conduct, including guidelines on taking diksha, observing periods of stay in different regions, avoiding solitary wandering, rules regarding vigai (consumables), dietary restrictions, and the importance of learning scriptures.
   • Pattakas by Kharatragachchhiya Acharya Shri Jinchandrasuri: Two such pattakas are included, focusing on rules for monastic conduct.
   • Pattakas from Shri Hirvijaysuri Maharaj: Two important pattakas are featured. One includes 29 points, and the other is the famous "Twelve Points" (Bār Bōl) which expanded upon Hirvijaysuri's guru, Vijaydansuri's, seven points. These twelve points are highlighted for their immense importance, comparable to the Kalpa Sutra in influencing the monastic community.
   • Pattakas by Shri Vijaysensuri Maharaj: The collection includes the most pattakas from him, including a seven-point pattaka and a six-point pattaka.
   • Pattakas by Shri Vijaydevsurisuri and Shri Vijaysinhsurisuri: Pattakas from these Acharyas are also included.
   • "Sadhu-Samudaya Maryada Pattaka" by Mahopadhyaya Shri Yashovijayji Maharaj and others: This pattaka is noted for the significant role of Mahopadhyaya Yashovijayji, a great scholar, in establishing these rules for monastic conduct.
   • Shri Vijaymanasuri's "Samachari Jalpa Pattaka": Each point in this pattaka references scriptures, ancient texts, and emphasizes behavioral norms and scriptural authority.
   • Bhattaraka Shri Samasurimaharaj's "Chati Maryada Pattaka": This is the last pattaka from the 18th century.
   • Community Constitution by Acharya Shri Vijaypremsurishwarji Maharaj: A constitution for his community.
   • Fifty-two Verses by Muni Shri Chandrashekhar Vijay Maharaj: Personal regulations for spiritual upliftment.

5. Importance of Conduct and Discipline (Page 15-25): The text extensively discusses the significance of strict adherence to monastic conduct ("achar-marga"). It draws parallels between worldly wealth and spiritual wealth, arguing that just as worldly riches need to be maintained, spiritual status requires rigorous discipline. It highlights that outward appearance (monastic robes) without inner substance is like a "dead brand" of wealth. The importance of conduct is stressed for personal spiritual progress, the well-being of the community, and the propagation of Jain principles. The text argues that conduct shapes thoughts, influences others, and is essential for maintaining the authority and respect of the Sangha. It provides detailed analysis of various rules, such as the importance of attending mandatory recitations, avoiding unnecessary talk, proper handling of alms, and the principle of not associating with those who deviate from prescribed conduct.

6. Specific Examples and Interpretations (Pages 20-25): The book delves into specific clauses from various pattakas, offering interpretations and their underlying significance. For instance:

   • A rule from Shri Vijaydevsurisuri's pattaka about mandatory group recitations emphasizes the importance of small details in Jain practice and the need for collective participation.
   • Another rule regarding alms-collection routes (hindi) highlights the importance of discipline and avoiding disruption in the community.
   • A clause from Acharya Shri Lavanyavijay Ganini's pattaka (under Acharya Shri Mansuri) warns against speaking ill of other sects or communities, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and harmony, even when differences in practice exist. It refers to Hirvijaysuri's Twelve Points which advocate for not condemning the good deeds of others, even if they belong to a different sect.

7. Compilation and Editing (Page 5, 13-14): The compiler, Muni Mahabodhivijay, is praised for his diligent work. The text acknowledges the efforts made to update the language of some pattakas while keeping others in their original form. It also mentions the challenges faced due to lack of resources and time to fully understand certain archaic terms, inviting scholars to contribute.

8. Stop Press Inclusion (Page 14): A significant addition is a pattaka from Acharya Jagachandrasuri, dating back to the 13th century, received just before printing. This pattaka, addressed to the entire Sangha, is noted for its insightful rules that remain relevant even today, covering aspects of monastic discipline and community conduct.

Key Takeaways:

• Upholding Monastic Discipline: The "Sadhumaryadapattaksangraha" is a testament to the Jain tradition's emphasis on maintaining strict discipline and ethical conduct among monks and nuns.
• Historical Continuity: It showcases the continuous effort by Jain Acharyas over centuries to preserve the purity and integrity of monastic life through the issuance of specific ordinances.
• Inter-Sect Harmony: The text promotes respectful interaction and understanding between different Jain sects, discouraging animosity and condemnation of each other's good deeds.
• Scholarly Compilation: The work is a valuable resource for understanding the evolution of monastic rules and the foresight of Jain scholars in addressing potential challenges within the Sangha.
• Personal and Collective Responsibility: It underscores that adherence to these rules is a responsibility of every individual monk and nun, as well as the collective leadership of the Sangha.

In essence, "Sadhumaryadapattaksangraha" serves as a vital guide for Jain monks, offering practical and spiritual directives to ensure their conduct aligns with the highest ideals of the monastic path, thereby contributing to the preservation and flourishing of Jainism.