Samkitna Sadsath Bolni Sazzay - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Samkitna Sadsath Bolni Sazzay" (समकितना सडसठ बोलनी सज्जाय), authored by Yashovijay Upadhyay and commented upon by Dhirajlal Dahyalaal Mehta, published by Jain Dharm Prasaran Trust, Surat.

The text is a Gujarati devotional and philosophical work that elaborates on "Samaktva" (सम्यक्त्व), which translates to Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct – the core principles of Jainism, often referred to as the Ratnatraya (रत्नत्रय). The "Sazzay" (सज्जाय) is a form of devotional song or poem.

The primary goal of this Sazzay is to explain the 67 "Bol" (बोल), which can be understood as attributes, characteristics, or indicators of possessing true Samaktva. These 67 points serve as external signs or manifestations of the internal realization of Samaktva, akin to how smoke indicates fire.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and sections covered in the text:

1. Introduction and Significance of Samaktva:

Spiritual Foundation: The text emphasizes that Samaktva is the primary and most crucial spiritual attainment, serving as the first step towards purifying the soul and manifesting its infinite inherent qualities. Without Samaktva, even extensive knowledge, strict conduct, or adherence to vows are considered insufficient for liberation (Moksha).
Understanding Samaktva: Samaktva is defined as the correct perspective, a true understanding of reality, and unwavering faith in the essence of things as described by enlightened beings (Jinas). It's the firm conviction that Vitaraag (free from attachment and aversion) and Sarvajna (omniscient) beings are the true Gods (Sudev), their teachings are the true Dharma (Sudharma), and those who follow their path (monks) are the true Gurus (Suguru).
Rarity and Value: Attaining Samaktva is described as extremely rare and precious, a treasure far more valuable than worldly possessions.

2. Origin and Lineage of the Text:

The Sazzay is based on the "Samaktva Saptatika" (सम्यक्त्व सप्ततिका), a work in Prakrit by Acharya Haribhadra Suri, who lived before Kalikala Sarvajna Hemchandracharya and authored many texts.
On this Saptatika, a Sanskrit commentary was written by Acharya Sanghatilak of the Rudrapalli Gachha.
The current Sazzay is an adaptation and explanation of these foundational texts, enriched with numerous interesting and instructive stories.

3. The 67 Points (Bol) of Samaktva: The text categorizes these 67 points into 12 main sections or "Adhikaras" (अधिकार), each explained through a specific "Dhal" (ढाल) or stanza:

Four Types of Faith (Saddahana - श्रद्ध).
Three Types of Indicators (Ling - लिंग).
Ten Types of Reverence (Vinay - विनय).
Three Types of Purity (Shuddhi - शुद्धि).
Five Types of Blemishes/Defects (Dushana - दूषण).
Eight Types of Influencers/Exponents (Prabhavak - प्रभावक).
Five Types of Adornments/Embellishments (Bhushan - भूषन).
Five Types of Characteristics (Lakshana - लक्षण).
Six Types of Vigilance/Carefulness (Jayana - जयणा).
Six Types of Exceptions/Permissions (Agara - आगार).
Six Types of Contemplations/Meditations (Bhavana - भावना).
Six Types of Abodes/Supports (Sthana - स्थान).

The text then elaborates on each of these 67 points with detailed explanations and illustrative stories.

4. Key Aspects Explained with Stories:

The Sazzay uses numerous stories to illustrate its points, including:

Stories of Faith (Shraddha):
- Jinadas and Sadhudasi: A couple who demonstrated unwavering faith and loyalty to Jain principles, even when faced with hardship.
- Kambal and Shambal (Bulls): The story of bulls who, through exposure to religious teachings, developed a pious disposition.
- Pushpa Chula Sadhvi: A story highlighting virtuous conduct and service even in difficult circumstances.
- Rohagupta Muni: Illustrates the dangers of pride and the importance of adhering to the correct path.
- King Naravarma and Madandatta: Demonstrates the importance of true faith and the power of spiritual knowledge.
- King Vajrakarna: Shows steadfastness in faith even when facing severe persecution.
- King Jitashatru and Aramshobha: Highlights the impact of karma and the ultimate triumph of righteousness.
- King Padmashekhara: An example of unwavering faith and the integration of spiritual principles into governance.
- King Nal and Minister Tilak: Illustrates the importance of righteous conduct and the guidance of true spiritual masters.
- King Udayi: Demonstrates how misplaced devotion and flawed understanding can lead to negative consequences.
Stories of Reverence and Conduct:
- Bhuvantilak Muni: Emphasizes the profound importance of reverence and humility.
- Aramshobha: Illustrates the power of devotion and the consequences of attachment.
- Vidhyutprabha: Shows the strength of faith and the power of good deeds.
- King Balmika and the Serpent: Demonstrates the virtue of compassion and the consequences of actions.
- King Nala and Minister Tilak: Further highlights the importance of righteous conduct and proper adherence to spiritual guidance.
- King Vajrakarna: Illustrates maintaining unwavering devotion even under extreme duress.
- King Jitashatru and King Nala: Shows the impact of true faith and adherence to principles.
- King Padmashekhara: Reinforces the significance of unwavering belief in Jain principles.
- King Udayi: A cautionary tale about misplaced faith and the adherence to superficial religious practices.
- King Harivahan: Demonstrates the pursuit of truth and the attainment of higher spiritual states through righteous conduct.
- King Padmashekhara: Again, an example of unwavering faith and ethical governance.
- Sulamati: Highlights the importance of purity of intention and steadfastness in faith.
- King Nal and Minister Tilak: Reinforces the importance of righteous conduct and proper adherence to spiritual guidance.
- King Balmika and the Serpent: Shows the strength of faith and the power of good deeds.
Stories of Purity and Blemishes:
- King Naravarma and Madandatta: Demonstrates the purity of mind in adhering to the true faith.
- Shankha Muni: Illustrates the concept of purity of conduct.
- King Vajrakarna: Shows the importance of maintaining the purity of body and mind in faith.
- King Jitashatru and Aramshobha: Highlights the consequences of attachment and the purity of intention.
- King Nala and Minister Tilak: Reinforces the importance of righteous conduct and proper adherence to spiritual guidance.
- Sulamati: Shows the strength of faith and the power of good deeds.
- King Padmashekhara: Reinforces the significance of unwavering belief in Jain principles.
- King Udayi: A cautionary tale about misplaced faith and the adherence to superficial religious practices.
- King Harivahan: Demonstrates the pursuit of truth and the attainment of higher spiritual states through righteous conduct.
- King Nal and Minister Tilak: Reinforces the importance of righteous conduct and proper adherence to spiritual guidance.
- King Padmashekhara: Reinforces the significance of unwavering belief in Jain principles.
- Sulamati: Shows the strength of faith and the power of good deeds.
Stories of Praiseworthiness and Praiseworthy Individuals:
- Vajuswami Muni: Illustrates the power of knowledge and virtuous conduct in influencing others.
- Dharmakathi (Nandishen Muni): Highlights the power of eloquent religious discourse in guiding people.
- Vadi Muni (Mall Muni): Shows the prowess of logical debate and the ability to defend Jainism.
- Naimittik (Bhadra Bahu Swami): Demonstrates the use of foresight and knowledge of causes and effects for the propagation of Jainism.
- Tapasi (Vishnukumar Muni): Exemplifies the power of asceticism and devotion in achieving spiritual goals.
- Vidyavan Muni: Shows the power of mystical knowledge and mantras.
- Siddha Muni: Illustrates the power of occult practices and attainments.
- Kavi Muni (Siddhasen Divakar): Highlights the influence of devotional poetry and eloquent speech in spreading Jainism.
- General Devotees: The text also mentions the importance of performing religious rituals and festivals when specific enlightened individuals are not present.
Stories of Virtues and Vices:
- The Five Blemishes (Dushana): Shankha (doubt), Kanksha (desire for other religions), Vitigichcha (disgust towards Jain practices or followers), Mithya- Mati-gun-varnana (praising the virtues of followers of other religions), and Mithya-mati-parichaya (association with followers of other religions).
- The Five Virtues (Bhushan): Kaushalya (skill in religious practice), Tirthasevana (pilgrimage and visiting holy places), Bhakti (devotion), Sthirata (steadfastness), and Prabhavana (propagation of Jainism).
- The Five Characteristics (Lakshana): Upasham (tranquility), Samvega (yearning for liberation), Nirvana (detachment from worldly desires), Anukampa (compassion), and Astikata (faith in Jain teachings).
- The Six Types of Vigilance (Jayana): Rules to protect Samaktva from falling into defects.
- The Six Types of Exceptions (Agara): Circumstances under which certain rules might be relaxed, though these are exceptions and not the norm.
- The Six Types of Contemplations (Bhavana): Mental practices to strengthen and deepen Samaktva.
- The Six Types of Supports (Sthana): The foundational principles or pillars that uphold Samaktva.

4. The Essence of the Sazzay: The Sazzay, through its detailed explanations and captivating narratives, aims to:

Cultivate Right Understanding: To instill a deep and accurate understanding of Samaktva and its various facets.
Promote Devotion: To inspire devotion towards the Ratnatraya (Jina, Dharma, Muni) and the principles of Jainism.
Encourage Practice: To motivate readers to internalize and practice the virtues and principles of Samaktva in their daily lives.
Foster Spiritual Growth: To guide individuals towards spiritual purification, liberation, and the ultimate well-being of the soul.

In essence, "Samkitna Sadsath Bolni Sazzay" is a profound guide that uses stories and philosophical explanations to illuminate the path to spiritual liberation through the unwavering practice of Samaktva.