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Shraddhvidhi Pprakaran

Added to library: September 2, 2025

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First page of Shraddhvidhi Pprakaran

Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Shraddhvidhi Prakaran" by Mafatlal Zaverchand Pandit, based on the provided Gujarati text:

Book Title: Shraddhvidhi Prakaran Author: Mafatlal Zaverchand Pandit Publisher: Mafatlal Zaverchand Pandit Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/023444/1

Overall Purpose and Content:

The book "Shraddhvidhi Prakaran" is a Gujarati translation and commentary on the original Jain text "Shraddhvidhi," authored by Acharya Ratnasekhar Suri. The primary goal of this book is to provide a detailed and accessible guide to the duties and rituals (Shraddhvidhi) incumbent upon Jain laymen (Shravaks) in their daily lives. It emphasizes the practical aspects of Jainism for householders, outlining their responsibilities towards themselves, their families, society, and spiritual development.

The text is structured to cover a wide range of topics relevant to a Shravak's life, divided into different "Prakarans" (chapters or sections) and further elaborated with a detailed commentary by Mafatlal Zaverchand Pandit. The commentary aims to clarify the original teachings, provide context, and offer practical guidance.

Key Themes and Sections:

The book is a comprehensive manual for Jain householders, covering the following key areas:

  1. Introduction and Motivation: The preface by the publisher and editor, Mafatlal Zaverchand Pandit, explains the impetus behind publishing this book. It highlights the need for such a text due to the unavailability of previous editions and the author's deep commitment to making Jain principles accessible to the common Shravak. The preface also touches upon the spiritual depth and societal contributions of ancient Indian ancestors.

  2. The Essence of Shravak Dharma: The book extensively discusses what it means to be a Shravak (a devout Jain householder). It differentiates between general (Samanya) and specific (Vishesh) Shravak duties.

    • General Shravak Dharma: This includes qualities like being ethical, not harming living beings, speaking truthfully, respecting elders, living modestly, and engaging in righteous conduct that benefits oneself and society. Thirty-five such qualities are listed.
    • Specific Shravak Dharma: This refers to the adherence to vows (Vratas) like Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy/chastity), and Aparigraha (non-possession). The book elaborates on the five Anuvratas (minor vows), three Gunavratas (merit vows), and four Shikshavratas (training vows) that form the foundation of a Shravak's spiritual practice.

  3. Daily and Ritualistic Duties (Dinkritya & Ratrikritya): A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the daily routine of a Shravak. This includes:

    • Morning Routine: Waking up early, reciting the Navkar Mantra, contemplating one's duty, performing ablutions, purifying oneself, visiting the temple (Jinalaya), performing rituals like Abhishek (ritual bathing of idols), chanting prayers, and observing Ppaatikraman (repentance for sins).
    • Daily Conduct: Maintaining honesty in business, ethical behavior in society, practicing compassion, and engaging in virtuous activities.
    • Evening Routine: Again performing evening prayers (Devasik Pratikraman), contemplation, and preparing for rest.
    • Special Duties during Festivals (Parva Krutya): The book details the importance of observing festivals like Ashtami, Chaturdashi, Purnima, Amavasya, and specifically mentions Paryushan (Chaumasi) and Janmakalyanak (birth anniversaries of Tirthankaras) as times for heightened spiritual practice, fasting, and renunciation.
    • Annual Duties (Varshik Krutya): This includes performing Sangh Puja (worship of the Jain community), Sadharmik Vatsalya (showing compassion and providing for fellow Jains), organizing Yatra (pilgrimages), performing Mahapuja (grand worship), Rathayatra (procession with the deity's chariot), and offering donations for temple upkeep and expansion.
    • Life Cycle Duties (Janma Krutya): This covers important life events like establishing a residence, acquiring knowledge and skills, marrying appropriately, making good friendships, building temples, installing idols, performing consecration ceremonies, celebrating religious festivals, taking initiation (Diksha), and ultimately striving for Moksha (liberation).

  4. Key Ethical Principles and Virtues: The book highlights essential Jain virtues and ethical conduct, including:

    • Ahimsa (Non-violence): Emphasized as the foremost duty, extending to all living beings.
    • Truthfulness, Non-stealing, Chastity, and Non-possession: The Anuvratas are explained in detail.
    • Control over senses and passions: The text stresses the importance of conquering desires and controlling anger, pride, deceit, and greed.
    • Honesty in Business and Conduct: Maintaining integrity in all dealings is crucial.
    • Compassion and Generosity: Helping the needy and contributing to the welfare of society.
    • Respect for Elders and Teachers: Showing reverence towards parents, gurus, and elders.
    • Patience and Tolerance: Remaining calm in adversity and showing understanding towards others.

  5. Detailed Ritualistic Explanations: The book provides specific instructions for various rituals and practices, including:

    • Pooja Vidhi (Worship): Details the correct procedures for worshipping Jain deities, including the concept of seven purities (Anga Shuddhi, Vastra Shuddhi, etc.) and the eight types of worship (Ashtaprakari Pooja).
    • Pachchakkhan (Renunciation): Explains the process of taking vows and the different types of fasting and renunciations (e.g., Ekasanu, Biyasannu, Chovihar).
    • Pratikraman: Describes the ritual of repentance and self-purification performed daily and on special occasions.
    • Navkar Mantra Japa: Explains the significance and methods of chanting the Navkar Mantra.
    • Etiquette and Conduct: Offers guidance on proper behavior in various social and religious settings.

  6. Author's Commentary and Guidance: Mafatlal Zaverchand Pandit's commentary is extensive, aiming to make the text relatable and applicable to modern readers. He explains the underlying principles and philosophical nuances of the original text.

  7. Historical and Biographical Context: The book includes a biographical sketch of the original author, Acharya Ratnasekhar Suri, tracing his lineage within the Tapagachchha tradition. It also provides historical context by mentioning the significant contributions of patrons like Vastupal and Tejpal, and the cultural environment of the time.

Structure and Style:

The book is structured with the original text's verses (Gathas) followed by Mafatlal Zaverchand Pandit's Gujarati translation and commentary. The commentary is written in a clear and explanatory style, making complex philosophical and ritualistic concepts understandable. The text also includes numerous illustrative stories and examples to make the teachings more impactful and memorable. The detailed index at the end of the book helps readers navigate the vast amount of information.

Overall Significance:

"Shraddhvidhi Prakaran" is a valuable resource for Jains seeking to understand and practice their religious duties as householders. It serves as a comprehensive guide to living a righteous Jain life, encompassing spiritual discipline, ethical conduct, and social responsibility. The book's detailed explanations and practical advice make it a vital text for anyone wishing to deepen their understanding of Jainism and its application in daily life.