Sajjan Tap Praveshika

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

Title: Sajjan Tap Praveshika (सज्जन तप प्रवेशिका) - An Introduction to Austerity Practices for the Virtuous

Author: Sadhvi Saumyaguna Shri (साध्वी सौम्यगुणा श्री)

Publisher: Prachya Vidyapith (प्राच्य विद्यापीठ)

Overall Theme: The book is a scholarly work, originally presented as a D.Litt. thesis, focusing on a comparative and critical study of Jain rituals and practices. This particular volume, "Sajjan Tap Praveshika," seems to be a part of a larger series (Volume 22) dedicated to a detailed exploration of various austerity practices (tapas) within the Shvetambara Jain tradition.

Key Highlights and Sections:

1. Dedications and Acknowledgements (Pages 8-10):

   • The book is dedicated to Bhagwan Adinath Dada, emphasizing the importance of austerity (tap) as a means to overcome the endless chain of karma.
   • It highlights the enduring relevance of Jain practices, stating that the increasing need for dieting, jogging, and exercise, along with the prevalence of diseases, has revived the significance of restraint (sanyam) and renunciation (tyag). It also notes how rising inflation and adulteration have enhanced the value of external austerity. This signifies the foresight and universal applicability of Jain principles.
   • The publication is presented as a small effort to demonstrate the relationship between science and religion and to guide the youth towards cultural and religious paths.
   • Heartfelt appreciation is extended to the Nahata family (residents of Jaisalmer, currently in Kolkata) for their support in memory of their father, Pannalalji.

2. Endorsements and Blessings (Pages 13-21):

   • Several prominent Jain Acharyas and scholars offer their blessings and praise for Sadhvi Saumyaguna Shri's extensive research work on Jain rituals and practices.
   • Acharya Shri Majjin Kailassagar Surishwarji M.S. commends the book for clarifying the importance of rituals in advancing the path of renunciation, noting that Sadhvi Saumyaguna has illuminated many secrets of the "Vidhimargapra," which serves as a foundation for current practices.
   • Acharya Padmasagar Suri highlights Sadhvi Saumyaguna's D.Litt. achievement in this field and her previous work translating "Vidhimargapra." He praises her detailed analysis of various rituals, including the sixteen Sanskaras, initiation, daily routines of monks, dietary codes, funeral rites, installation ceremonies, scriptural study methods, austerity practices, penance, worship, and various yogic postures (mudras).
   • Upadhyay Shri Maniprabhsagarji M.S. expresses pleasure at the 23-volume research on Jain rituals and procedures, emphasizing its authentic introduction to traditional practices and the benefits of yogic postures.
   • Mahattara Shramani Varya Shri Shashi Prabha Shri M.S. acknowledges the vast scope of Jain ritualistic research and wishes for continued growth in knowledge.
   • Acharya Ratnakarsuri praises the research work as useful information for the Jain community and the monastic order.
   • Acharya Rajashekhar Suri highlights the dynamism of human life and the two types of external and internal behavioral systems (Vidhi-Vidhans) mentioned in Jain philosophy for adaptation.
   • Muni Piyush Sagar and Muni Mahendrasagar also offer their commendations for the comprehensive and insightful nature of the research, particularly its scientific aspects and relevance for the youth.
   • Mahattara Manohara Shri Charanraj Pravartini Kirti Prabha Shri Ji praises the author's effort in churning the vast literature on Jain rituals to present a refined contemplation.

3. Introduction to Tapas (Austerity) by Sadhvi Saumyaguna Shri (Pages 22-24 & 44-52):

   • The Essence of Tap: Tapas is presented as the core of Jain culture and the life force of Jain practice. It's stated that every aspect of Jainism is imbued with austerity.
   • The Power of Tap: Tapas is described as having unfathomable power, capable of purifying internal impurities, similar to how heat purifies metals or sunlight purifies the external world.
   • Broader Definition of Tap: Tapas is not merely physical suffering but the control of desires and needs. It encompasses various spiritual activities like self-study, service, devotion, fasting, penance, control of senses, meditation, and humility.
   • Types of Tap: The text distinguishes between external (Bahya Tap) and internal (Abhyantara Tap) austerities. External tap pertains to the body, while internal tap manifests the soul's inherent qualities.
   • Science and Tap: The author notes that modern science also acknowledges the necessity of austerity for a healthy body, citing dietary control and fasting as examples that doctors recommend and are also advocated by ancient Jain acharyas.
   • Purpose of Tap: The primary goal of tapas is karmic discharge (karma nirjara) leading to liberation (moksha), rather than mere worldly gain.
   • Challenges for Youth: The author acknowledges that today's youth perceive tapas as restrictive, preferring freedom of choice. However, the analogy of a car needing brakes and steering highlights the need for control.
   • Health Benefits: Tapas is presented as a natural therapy for physical well-being, aiding in calorie consumption and maintaining an active body.
   • Modern Relevance: Current dieting practices are seen as a transformed version of tapas, incorporating elements like intermittent fasting, reduced consumption, and dietary restrictions.
   • Avoiding Ritualism: The author warns against the ostentation and worldly desires that often accompany large-scale austerities, emphasizing that true tapas should be desireless and focused solely on karmic purification.
   • True Tapasvi: A true tapasvi is not just one who fasts, but one who practices inner austerities like self-study, service, confession, and meditation. The focus on the intention behind the austerity is crucial; desires for worldly gains can lead to negative consequences.
   • External vs. Internal Tap: Both external and internal austerities are essential. External tapas purifies the mind, while internal tapas refines the soul. They are compared to the inner and outer parts of a palace, both important for its completeness.
   • Knowledge and Action: The text emphasizes that both knowledge ('jnana') and action ('kriya') are necessary for liberation, akin to two wheels of a chariot. Mere knowledge without action leads to pride and delusion.
   • Faith and Action: Even without full understanding of the meaning of mantras or rituals, performing them with faith can yield positive results, similar to how a specific mantra benefits a snake-bitten person regardless of their knowledge of it.
   • The Role of Rituals: Rituals like 'khama-samana' and 'pradakshina' enhance devotion, aid in worship, and are considered effective means for karmic discharge when performed with tapas.
   • Diligence and Rectification: The text details various "doshas" (flaws) to be avoided during religious practices, such as fatigue, restlessness, distraction, lack of enthusiasm, confusion, attachment to worldly pleasures, disease (related to desires), and attachment to a particular practice.

4. Detailed Classification and Description of Austerity Practices (Tapas) (Pages 63-246):

   • This forms the core of the book, systematically presenting various austerity practices prevalent in the Shvetambara Jain tradition.
   • Historical Context: It traces the evolution of tapas from ancient Agamic texts to later compilations, noting the increase in the number and variety of recognized austerities over time, often adapted to the changing times and capabilities of practitioners.
   • Categorization of Tapas: The text broadly categorizes tapas based on their origin (Tirthankara-prescribed, Acharya-prescribed) and purpose (worldly fulfillment vs. liberation). It also identifies modern practices that align with the spirit of tapas.
   • Specific Types of Tapas: A vast array of specific austerities are described in detail, including:
     • Bhishu Pratima Tapas: Twelve stages of austerity for monks.
     • Saptasaptamika, Ashtashtamika, Navanavimika, Dashdashamika Bhishu Pratima Tapas: Progressive forms of austerity based on the number of "dattis" (offerings) per day over a specified period.
     • Bhadra Pratima, Mahabhadra Pratima, Bhadrauttara Pratima, Sarvatobhadra Pratima: Austerities involving complex numerical patterns and periods of fasting and partial fasting.
     • Guna Ratna Samvatsara Tap: A year-long austerity involving escalating fasting and other practices.
     • Simha Niskridita Tap: Austerities with cyclical increases and decreases in fasting periods, mimicking a lion's movement.
     • Kanakaavali, Muktaavali, Ratnavali, Ekavali Tapas: Austerities described as resembling jewel necklaces, involving intricate sequences of fasting and partial fasting.
     • Ayambil Vardhmana Tap: A practice of gradually increasing the number of Ayambil meals.
     • Shreni Tap, Pratar Tap, Ghana Tap, Varga Tap, Varga Varga Tap, Prakirna Tap: Mathematical and cyclical fasting practices described in ancient texts.
     • Indriyajaya Tap: Austerities for conquering the senses.
     • Kashayajaya Tap: Austerities to overcome anger, pride, deceit, and greed.
     • Yogashuddhi Tap: Practices for purifying mind, speech, and body.
     • Dharmachakra Tap: Austerities associated with the Wheel of Dharma.
     • Kalyanaka Tap: Practices commemorating the five auspicious events in the lives of Tirthankaras (birth, renunciation, kevalgyana, first sermon, nirvana).
     • Chandraayana Tap: Austerities following lunar phases.
     • Poushadashami Tap: Dedicated to Bhagwan Parshvanath.
     • Mouna Ekadashi Tap: Austerity observed in silence on a specific Ekadashi.
     • Navapada Oli: A popular 9-day austerity.
     • Shatkaya Tap: Austerities related to the six categories of living beings.
     • Shruta Devata Tap: Worship of the Goddess of Knowledge.
     • Amrita Ashtami Tap: Practices performed on a specific auspicious day.
     • Paratra Pali Tap: Austerities for the benefit of the afterlife.
     • Nirvana Deep (Diwali) Tap: Associated with Lord Mahavir's nirvana.
     • Alakshman Dasami Tap: Austerity for marital longevity.
     • Karma Churna Tap: Practices to eradicate karma.
     • Namaskar Tap: Austerities centered around chanting the Namokar Mantra.
     • Panch Parmeshthi Tap: Worship and austerity dedicated to the five supreme beings.
     • Dashvidha Yati Dharma Tap: Austerities following ten principles for ascetics.
     • Vimsati Sthanak Tap: Austerities dedicated to the twenty virtues or stages.
     • Sahastrakuta Tap: Austerities involving the worship of 1024 Tirthankaras.
     • Various other specific tapas named after historical figures, places, or specific observances.
   • Detailed Methodology: For each major tapas, the book provides:
     • The meaning and significance of the name.
     • Historical or scriptural references.
     • The prescribed rituals, including the number of fasts, partial fasts, and types of meals.
     • The specific deity or principle being venerated.
     • The intended benefits.
     • The duration and sequence of practices.
     • The "Udyapan" (culminating ritual) and specific daily practices like chanting and mantras.
     • Yantra (Diagrams): For complex tapas, diagrams are included to illustrate the ritualistic layout.

5. Praise and Gratitude (Pages 53-59):

   • Sadhvi Saumyaguna Shri expresses deep gratitude to her spiritual guides, including her Diksha Guru (Pravartini Sajjan Shri M.S.), Shiksha Guru (P.P. Shashi Prabha Shri M.S.), and various Acharyas and Upadhyayas who guided her research. She also thanks the publishers, supporting families, and institutions like the Parshvanath Vidyapith.

6. Biographical Sketches of Gurus (Pages 24-30):

   • The book includes brief biographies of her spiritual mentors:
     • Pravartini Sajjan Shri M.S. (Diksha Guru): Described as a beacon of knowledge, a dedicated practitioner, and a prolific writer who influenced many.
     • P.P. Shashi Prabha Shri M.S. (Shiksha Guru): Highlighted for her simplicity, devotion, disciplinary rigor, and extensive knowledge, who has nurtured many disciples.

7. Personal Journey of Sadhvi Saumyaguna Shri (Pages 30-43):

   • This section details the arduous, 17-year journey of Sadhvi Saumyaguna Shri in completing this monumental research, overcoming numerous obstacles related to accessing texts, university regulations, travel, and maintaining her monastic discipline alongside intense study. It highlights her dedication, perseverance, and the immense effort involved in producing 23 volumes of scholarly work.

8. Mish-Shami (Apology) by the Author (Page 59):

   • Sadhvi Saumyaguna Shri humbly seeks forgiveness for any unintentional errors, omissions, or deviations from scriptural teachings due to her limited intellect, the vastness of the subject, time constraints, and lack of resources. She acknowledges that the work is a starting point and hopes it inspires further research.

Overall Significance:

"Sajjan Tap Praveshika" is a significant contribution to Jain literature, especially for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of Shvetambara austerity practices. It serves as both an academic reference and a practical guide for devotees interested in undertaking rigorous spiritual disciplines. The meticulous detail, historical context, and scriptural basis for each practice make it an invaluable resource for scholars and practitioners alike. The book is a testament to the author's profound scholarship, dedication, and the rich tradition of Jain asceticism.