Sanyamni Sahachari Gochri - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, "Sanyamni Sahachari Gochri":

The book "Sanyamni Sahachari Gochri" by Ramanlal C. Shah discusses the profound significance of "Gochari" (alms-round or begging for food) within the Jain ascetic tradition. The text emphasizes how this practice, initiated by Lord Mahavir, is intrinsically linked to the disciplined and controlled life of Jain monks and nuns, serving as a companion to their "Sanyam" (self-control and asceticism).

Key Points and Themes:

Lord Mahavir's Example: The book begins by highlighting the enduring relevance of Lord Mahavir's teachings even after 2500 years. His establishment of the four-fold Jain community (monks, nuns, male devotees, female devotees) with rigorous rules for ascetics is noted. The text points to the unbroken tradition of Jainism for millennia as proof of the efficacy of these principles.
The Rigors of Asceticism: It details the extreme practices of Jain monks, such as eating only once a day while standing, and for Digambar (sky-clad) monks, wearing no clothes. These practices are presented not as hardship, but as a means to reduce attachment to the body and increase inner absorption in the soul.
Gochari and Pavihar as Pillars of Tradition: A significant reason for the survival of the Jain monastic tradition through adverse circumstances is attributed to their principles of Gochari and Pavihar (moving from place to place). This constant movement and the practice of collecting minimal alms from various households reduce attachment to specific places, communities, or individuals, thus fostering respect from society.
Lord Mahavir's Renunciation: The text contrasts Lord Mahavir's princely life with his voluntary acceptance of begging for sustenance, illustrating his elevated spiritual state and detachment from worldly pleasures. His eleven years of intense penance, during which he consumed food for only about one year in total, is highlighted as an extraordinary feat.
The Role of the Stomach in Life: The book explores the human preoccupation with sustenance ("Udharbharan" - filling the stomach). It presents two contrasting views: one that life would be more peaceful without the need for food, and another that the effort for food keeps humans engaged and prevents greater conflict and unrest. However, it suggests that true peace is experienced by those who understand the nature of food and consume it with restraint.
Societal Responsibility and Dignity: The text addresses the societal responsibility to provide for those who dedicate their lives to spiritual pursuits, like monks and nuns. It argues that supporting these selfless souls is a paramount duty. The practice of providing food through "Annachhatras" (free feeding places) and "Sadavratas" (charitable feeding centers) is ancient in India. However, the donation of food to monks and nuns is met with special affection and reverence.
The Principles of Gochari and Madhukari: The core of the book lies in explaining "Gochari" and the related term "Madhukari." Gochari is described as the practice of collecting a small amount of food from different households, akin to a cow grazing lightly from various spots without causing harm. Madhukari is further elaborated with a quote from the Dashavaikalika Sutra, comparing the monk's alms-round to a bee collecting nectar from flowers without damaging them. This emphasizes the need to cause no burden or suffering to the donor.
Eshanasamiti (Rightful Collection of Food): The concept of Eshanasamiti is introduced, defining the acceptable manner of collecting food. It must be obtained without any personal involvement (Krit, Karit, Samarthan) in its preparation, be pure, praiseworthy, and given willingly by another. Monks must avoid food that is impure (aprashuk), bought for oneself (krīt), specially prepared for oneself (audeshik), or brought forth for the monk (āhata).
Mudhadayi and Mudhajeevi: The text introduces the terms "Mudhadayi" (one who gives charity selflessly) and "Mudhajeevi" (one who lives solely for sustenance without attachment). Both are considered rare and virtuous beings who attain liberation.
Doshas (Faults) in Food: The book meticulously details the "Doshas" associated with food collection, categorized into "Ugam Dosha" (faults in preparation), "Utpanna Dosha" (faults during cooking), and "Ashan Dosha" (faults during eating). Monks are advised to avoid food with gross or subtle faults.
Moderation and Detachment: Jain monks are encouraged to eat only once a day, and if a second meal is necessary, it should be in a very small quantity. The food is meant only for sustaining the body, not for satisfying taste buds or building strength. Foods that incite passions or bodily disturbances (Vigai) are forbidden. This moderation allows them to maintain celibacy, focus on spiritual practices like meditation and study, and embody the ideal of a lean, ascetic monk.
Ethical Conduct During Gochari: The text outlines crucial guidelines for monks during their Gochari:
- They should not cause disrespect from householders.
- They should avoid creating envy or ill-will among other monks or mendicants.
- Their own disciplined life should not be compromised by the act of collecting alms.
- They should not cause inconvenience or burden to householders, ideally collecting alms after meals are completed.
- They should avoid places of celebration or feasts where food is overly stimulating and crowds are present, as this can lead to disrespect.
- They should not accept food from pregnant women or nursing mothers.
- They should be cautious when visiting homes with only women and maintain a humble demeanor, avoiding prolonged interaction and conversation, especially with younger women.
- To prevent attachment to specific households, monks should visit different houses in different directions daily.
Acceptance and Equanimity: Monks should not feel dejected if they don't receive the desired food, nor should they rejoice over good food. They should bear hunger (hunger is a form of penance) with equanimity, understanding it as an opportunity for shedding karma. They should not praise or criticize the food received to other monks.
Uniqueness of Jain Asceticism: The book emphasizes that the strictness of the Jain Gochari tradition is unparalleled in other religions. Jain monks do not eat or even drink water before sunrise or after sunset. They are not allowed to store leftover food and always collect slightly less than their requirement to avoid wastage.
Gochari as a Foundation of Respect: The Gochari tradition, with its stringent rules, has ensured that the renounced life of Jain monks and nuns is always respected. This respect is why the Jain community has taken on the responsibility of supporting thousands of ascetics with honor and willingness. Jain householders are often referred to as the parents of monks and nuns, and receiving Gochari at their doorstep is considered a great fortune.

In essence, "Sanyamni Sahachari Gochri" elucidates Gochari not just as a method of sustenance but as a fundamental practice that underpins the entire framework of Jain asceticism, fostering detachment, equanimity, social responsibility, and spiritual progress.