Saptapadi Shastra

This Jain text, titled "Saptapadi Shastra" (सप्तपदी शास्त्र), was authored by Sagarchandrasuri and published by Mandal Sangh. It is a commentary and translation of the original work by Yugapradhan Bhattaraka Uttam Bhattaraka Pujyapada Jainacharya Varyashri Bhatrchandra Surishwarji Maharaj. The text was first published in 1940 and is part of a series by Acharya Shri Kailassagarsuri Gyanmandir.

The book itself, "Saptapadi Shastra," is presented as a commentary and translation ("Mul-Arthadi Granth 4") by Acharya Dev Shri Sagar Chandrasurishwarji.

The text begins with prayers to various Jain Tirthankaras, Goddess Saraswati, and then offers a detailed praise (a "Stuti") for Acharya Shri Parshchandrasurishwarji, highlighting his qualities as a guide to the Jain path, a destroyer of worldly suffering, and a possessor of great fortune and fame.

The introductory pages also include dedications and acknowledgments. Page 5, for instance, is a dedication to Acharya Shri Bhatrchandra Surishwarji Maharaj, recognizing him as a righteous, scholarly, and benevolent spiritual leader who guided many souls towards liberation through his teachings and charitable works. The author, Muni Shrivruddhichandra, expresses his gratitude and fulfillment in dedicating this work to him.

Page 6 contains a publisher's note expressing the rationale behind publishing this ancient text. Due to the scarcity of handwritten copies of "Saptapadi Shastra," it was decided to print it for wider accessibility. The work of preparing the press copy and editing was undertaken by Acharya Shri Sagar Chandrasurishwarji and Muni Shrivruddhichandra, with financial assistance from the Shri Sangh of Mandal village. The publishers request understanding for any minor errors that might have crept in due to printing limitations.

Page 7 expresses gratitude to Acharya Shri Sagar Chandrasurishwarji for agreeing to come to Mandal village for Chaturmas and for the enthusiastic response from the local community in reading the scriptures. It further states that the revenue generated from this activity was used to publish the works of Acharya Shri Parshchandrasurishwarji. Financial contributions from Shri Dalshukhabhai Virchand of Khambhat and cooperation from Shri Vadilal Lallubhai for the printing work are also acknowledged.

The "Prastavana" (Introduction) on page 8 explains the core purpose of the book. It emphasizes the importance of following the teachings of the Jinas ( वीतराग) and the guidance of true Gurus for spiritual welfare. The "Saptapadi Shastra" is described as a compilation on "Samachari Ashrit" (समाचारी समाश्रित), focusing on seven key "pad" or principles. These are elaborated as:

1. Gachsthiti (गच्छस्थिति): The rules and principles governing the Jain monastic community (Gachh).
2. Sambhog-Asambhog Vidhi (संभोग-असंभोगविधि): The rules regarding sharing resources (like food and water) among monks, defining when it's permissible and when it's not.
3. Ratri-Divas Charaya (रात्रिदिवसचरिया): The daily routine and conduct of monks during the day and night according to scriptures.
4. Panch Pratikraman Vidhi (पंचप्रतिक्रमणविधि): The rules and procedures for the five types of repentance and confession as per scripture.
5. Udayatithi Swaroop (उदयतिथीनं स्वरूप): The nature and significance of the "Udayatithi" (a specific auspicious day or time).
6. Shravak Upadhan Vidhi (श्रावकों का उपधान विधि): The rules and rituals for lay followers (Shravaks) undertaking religious observances (Upadhan).
7. Upadesh Vidhi (उपदेशविधि): The methods and principles for monks to deliver spiritual teachings.

The introduction also mentions that the "Saptapadi Shastra" was originally composed by Acharya Shri Parshchandrasurishwarji on Kartik Sudhi Purnima in VS 1591 (1534 CE). It further describes the discovery of manuscripts for the text and the process of preparing the press copy, including the incorporation of commentaries from previous Acharyas.

The text then delves into "Utsutra Tiraskar Nama - Vichar Pat" (उत्सूत्रतिरस्कारनामा-विचारपट), authored by Acharya Shri Parshchandra Surivar in VS 1575 (1518 CE), which addresses deviations from true Jain principles and teachings. Following this, it introduces "Shri Sthapana Panchashika Prakaran" (श्री स्थापना पञ्चाशिकाप्रकरण), also authored by Acharya Shri Parshchandra Suri in VS 1574 (1517 CE), which likely discusses the veneration of Jain idols and symbols.

The author, Acharya Shri Sagar Chandrasurishwarji, explains his motivation for compiling these texts. He highlights the prevailing atmosphere of negativity, envy, and ostentatious rituals in the 16th century CE Jain community, where some individuals were straying from scriptural teachings and practicing unregulated lifestyles. In this context, he emphasizes the need for clear guidance based on scriptures to uphold the purity of the Jain path. He also touches upon the personal attacks and criticisms faced by Acharya Shri Parshchandra Suri for his adherence to scriptural principles.

The text then provides a biographical sketch of Acharya Shri Parshchandra Suri, detailing his birth in VS 1537, his initiation into monkhood at a young age, his attainment of the Upadhyay and Acharya titles, and his significant contributions, including reviving righteous conduct and composing numerous works. It also mentions his influence in converting Rajput communities to Jainism and his extensive travels and social reform activities, such as stopping cow slaughter and preventing outbreaks of plague. His eventual establishment as Yugapradhan (leader of an era) in VS 1599 and his peaceful demise in VS 1612 at the age of 75 are also narrated.

The subsequent sections (pages 27 onwards) delve into the detailed scriptural analysis and explanation of the "Saptapadi Shastra," quoting extensively from various Jain scriptures like "Dashashrutaskandha," "Nishith Sutra," "Sthananga," "Vyavahara Sutra," "Uttaradhyayana," and others. These sections meticulously explain the seven principles, providing scriptural references and interpretations on topics such as:

• Gachha-maryada (गच्छ-मर्यादा): The rules and traditions within monastic orders.
• Sambhog-Asambhog (संभोग-असंभोग): The rules of sharing and non-sharing of possessions and activities among monks.
• Daily Conduct (दैनंदिन आचरण): The prescribed conduct for monks throughout the day and night.
• Pratikramana (प्रतिक्रमण): The rituals of confession and repentance.
• Udayatithi (उदयतिथि): The significance of auspicious days.
• Upadhana (उपधान): The religious observances of lay followers.
• Upadesha (उपदेश): The principles of delivering spiritual discourse.

The Gujarati translation further elucidates these points, aiming to make the profound teachings of the original text accessible to a wider audience. The translator notes that the original text contains 287 Prakrit verses and 70 additional verses, and this translation is provided for those who may not be proficient in Prakrit and Sanskrit.

The book also includes a "Shuddhipatraka" (शुद्धिपत्रक) or errata, listing corrections for printing mistakes.

In essence, this is a comprehensive Jain religious and philosophical text, providing detailed guidance on monastic conduct, lay responsibilities, and core Jain principles, all rooted in scriptural authority and expounded with the aim of spiritual upliftment.