Sajjanachittvallabh

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sajjanachittvallabh" in English, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Sajjanachittvallabh (सज्जनचित्तवल्लभ) Author: Acharya 108 Shri Mallishen Ji Maharaj Translator & Editor: Yuva Muni 108 Shri Suvidhisagar Ji Maharaj Publisher: Bharatkumar Indarchand Papdiwal Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/090403/1

Overall Theme and Purpose:

"Sajjanachittvallabh" is a concise yet profound Jain text, authored by the esteemed Acharya Mallishen Ji. The text serves as a guide, primarily for Jain monks (Munis), and to some extent for lay followers (Shravaks), on maintaining a pure and righteous spiritual path. Its central theme is to emphasize the true essence of asceticism and spiritual practice, warning against superficial adherence and advocating for deep inner transformation. The book aims to prevent laxity (shithilachar) in the monastic order and inspire genuine spiritual dedication.

Key Messages and Content Breakdown:

The text is structured through a series of verses, each addressing a specific aspect of spiritual conduct and understanding. Here's a breakdown of the prominent themes covered:

• The True Nature of Munihood (Asceticism):

  • Verse 2: True glory for a Muni comes from conduct (Charitra), not mere outward nakedness. Analogies are used to illustrate this: a night without the moon, a pond without lotuses, a सभा without scholars, an elephant without tusks, a flower without fragrance, and a wife without a husband are all devoid of beauty. Similarly, a Muni, even if learned in scriptures, is not truly a Muni without virtuous conduct.
  • Verse 3: Renouncing clothes alone does not make a Muni. Just as a snake shedding its skin doesn't become free of poison, a Muni without inner purification and control of passions (Raga, Dvesha) is merely an imitator of the outward appearance. True asceticism stems from forgiveness, control of senses, truthfulness, and righteous conduct.

• The Characteristics of a True Muni (Sadhana Lakshana):

  • Verse 4: This verse outlines nine essential qualities for a Muni:
    1. Detachment from the body (Dehe Nirmamata): Recognizing the body as a temporary vessel, not to be overly attached to.
    2. Respect for the Guru (Gurau Vinayata): Reverence and humility towards spiritual guides.
    3. Constant Study of Scriptures (Nitya Srutabhyasata): Regular study of the Jinavani (teachings of Jinas) to maintain focus and understanding.
    4. Purity of Conduct (Charitrojvalata): Unblemished and virtuous actions.
    5. Great Equanimity (Mahopashamta): Deep inner peace and control over passions and reactions.
    6. Detachment from the World (Sansara Nirvegatā): A genuine disinterest in worldly affairs and a yearning for liberation.
    7. Renunciation of Internal and External Possessions (Antarbahya Parigrahātyajanata): Letting go of both mental attachments (like anger, pride, deceit, greed) and physical possessions.
    8. Knowledge of Dharma (Dharmagnata): Understanding the true nature of righteousness and one's duty.
    9. True Asceticism (Saduta): The embodiment of these qualities leading to genuine sainthood.

• Prohibitions and Warnings:

  • Verse 5: A Muni should not desire wealth. If the desire for wealth remains in the mind, then what is the benefit of renouncing the household life and adopting the monastic garb? The attraction to wealth often stems from desires related to women, indicating that the Muni has not truly renounced worldly attachments.
  • Verse 7: Munis are warned against engaging in conversations about women (Streekatha). The text describes the physical detachment of a Muni (unpleasant body, begging for food, sleeping on the ground, nakedness) and questions how such a person can still be attracted to discussions about women, which are seen as corrupting.
  • Verse 8: The physical body is described in unappealing detail – originating from blood and semen, filled with fat, bone, and marrow, covered by skin, and essentially a decaying matter that would be consumed by scavengers if not for its skin. This description is meant to instill detachment and aversion towards the physical form.
  • Verse 9: The body's inherent foulness is emphasized, even when attempts are made to purify it with sandalwood and other fragrances. The text questions what else could possibly evoke detachment if the sheer unpleasantness of the body doesn't.
  • Verse 10: Women are compared to ripe fruits of a poisonous tree – appearing sweet but leading to death upon consumption. They are likened to venomous snakes, and Munis are urged to avoid them from a distance.
  • Verse 11: The body is described as a "foolish" entity that receives all that it desires but ultimately perishes and does not accompany the soul. Only karmic merit (Punya) and demerit (Papa) travel with the soul. Therefore, one should not be deluded by attachment to the body.
  • Verse 12: The transient nature of relationships is highlighted. Even wives and relatives forget the deceased person quickly, especially if there is no wealth. This underscores the self-centeredness of worldly ties.
  • Verse 13: A strong prohibition against renouncing vows after taking them. Just as a starving person would not eat their own vomit, a Muni should not abandon their vows, especially when facing hardships like cold weather. This emphasizes the importance of perseverance and enduring difficulties for spiritual gain.
  • Verse 14: People are advised to stop thinking of their own immortality while others die. They should control their senses, which are like wild elephants, and pursue the righteous path shown by the Jinas for self-welfare, as death is inevitable.
  • Verse 15: If one desires happiness, they must have performed acts of charity and penance in past lives. Otherwise, happiness cannot be obtained. Just as seeds must be sown to reap a harvest, actions are necessary for results. Attachment to the body, which is like a sugarcane eaten by insects, is futile.
  • Verse 16: Half of one's lifespan is spent in sleep, and the rest is wasted in childhood, old age, and indulging in vices. Therefore, one must cut the bonds of attachment with the sword of knowledge and practice right conduct to attain liberation.
  • Verse 17: When begging for food, honor and dishonor should not matter. Munis should not be distressed by their difficult circumstances or the nature of the food they receive, as they endure these hardships for their ultimate spiritual benefit.
  • Verse 18: Munis should not wander alone like a stray bull attracted to cows. They should remain within the community of righteous monks and adhere to virtuous conduct. Solitary wandering is discouraged for those who are not fully self-controlled.
  • Verse 19: The body is like a rented house; it must be vacated when the lease (lifespan) ends. Therefore, one should not vainly nourish this body but strive for spiritual liberation within its limited time. Munis should accept whatever food they receive with equanimity, without attachment or anger, as it is necessary for sustaining the body for spiritual practice.
  • Verse 20: The lives of those who have wealth but do not donate to Dharma, those who are poor but remain attached to pleasures, and those who have received the path of Dharma but disrespect it are all considered meaningless, like the nipples on a goat's neck.
  • Verse 21: The rarity of human birth, a good lineage, health, intelligence, and the company of the wise and the teachings of the Jinas are highlighted. One should not ruin this precious existence by seeking petty worldly pleasures.
  • Verse 22: Women are described as the cause of destruction of the soul and are likened to fierce demons. Their company should be avoided as they can lead to downfall.
  • Verse 23: Munis should not trust women and avoid their homes. Doing so leads to gossip, doubt, loss of power (prowess/spiritual strength), and ultimately spiritual decline. They should remain engrossed in scripture study and obey their Guru.
  • Verse 24: The body is inherently impure and cannot be truly purified by external adornments or washing. Efforts to beautify the body are futile and can lead to a false sense of accomplishment if one is not free from desires.
  • Verse 25 (Conclusion): This final verse summarizes the book's purpose: "Sajjanachittvallabh," authored by Acharya Mallishen Ji and composed in twenty-four verses with appropriate explanations, is meant for wise individuals to hear. By listening to it, they can restrain their senses, which are like powerful elephants that wander endlessly in the forest of worldly pleasures, and thus achieve liberation.

Overall Tone and Style:

The text employs a direct, admonitory, and often strong tone, reflecting its purpose of correcting laxity and reinforcing strict adherence to Jain principles. The author uses vivid analogies and strong imagery to convey the gravity of spiritual responsibilities and the dangers of worldly attachments.

Significance:

"Sajjanachittvallabh" is valuable for its clear articulation of essential Jain monastic discipline and the pursuit of spiritual liberation. It serves as a reminder that true spirituality is an internal journey of self-control, detachment, and righteous conduct, not merely an adherence to external forms. The text emphasizes the preciousness of the human birth and the importance of utilizing it for the ultimate goal of Moksha.