Shravak Dwadash Vrat Chatushpadika

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Shravak Dwadash Vrat Chatushpadika" by Vinaysagar, based on the provided text:

Book Title: Shravak Dwadash Vrat Chatushpadika (The Fourteen-Verse Compendium of Layman's Twelve Vows)

Author: Vinaysagar (as stated in the introduction, though the author's name isn't explicitly mentioned within the verses themselves)

Publisher: ZZ_Anusandhan (as per the provided information)

Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/229686/1

Overall Purpose and Content:

This short work, composed in the Apabhramsha language, is a concise exposition of the twelve vows incumbent upon a lay follower (Shravak) in Jainism. It emphasizes that the foundation of these vows lies in Samyaktva (right faith or true perception). The text aims to guide individuals toward spiritual liberation (Moksha) by outlining the ethical principles and practices associated with these vows.

Introduction and Context:

The introduction highlights that the work is a composition by the poet Vinaysagar. It states that a manuscript dating back to the 16th century is preserved in the Shri Jinbhadrasuri Gyan Bhandar in Jaisalmer, suggesting that the work itself was likely composed in the 15th century. The introduction also notes that the author's name is not explicitly mentioned within the text itself, and it's possible this is a descriptive rather than narrative piece. The text is presented as a compilation of fourteen verses (Chatushpadika likely refers to a four-line verse structure, and "Dwadash Vrat" means twelve vows).

Key Themes and Verses:

The text systematically presents the twelve vows, emphasizing their significance and the rewards of their observance.

• Verses 1-4: Introduction and Universal Truths:

  • The work begins with salutations to the Viru (likely referring to a Tirthankara or revered being) and encourages attentive listening to the teachings.
  • It asserts that the core of the twelve vows is Samyaktva.
  • The text acknowledges the incomprehensibility of the divine essence but encourages reflection on religious principles. It states that adherence to righteousness leads to eternal bliss and liberation.
  • A universal truth is presented: no amount of wealth, knowledge, or even the company of the sixty-three great men can overcome suffering without experiencing consequences (implying the need to follow dharma).
  • It references the achievements of the 24 Tirthankaras, Chakravartis, Baladevas, and Prativasudevas, all of whom attained liberation by eradicating karma. This serves as an inspiration for aspiring followers.

• Verses 5-19: The Twelve Vows and Their Significance:

  • Verse 5 (First Vow - Ahimsa/Non-violence): The first of the five Anuvratas (minor vows) is compassion towards all living beings. It urges followers to see all souls (living and non-living) and seek happiness for themselves as they would for others.
  • Verse 6 (Second Vow - Satya/Truthfulness): Lying is condemned. Speaking the truth brings immense benefits. It is stated that truthfulness leads to wealth, prosperity, and ultimately, spiritual attainment.
  • Verse 7 (Third Vow - Asteya/Non-stealing): The vow against taking what is not given is stressed. Disrespecting chastity (Shila) is an offense. Avoiding the wealth of others is paramount, as it helps in crossing the difficult ocean of worldly existence.
  • Verse 8 (Fourth Vow - Brahmacharya/Chastity): For those who are pure in lineage, observing chastity leads to enjoyment of heavenly pleasures.
  • Verse 9 (Fifth Vow - Aparigraha/Non-possession/Limitation of Possessions): One should practice moderation in possessions. Unnecessary desires are like being entangled in a spider's web.
  • Verse 10 (Sixth Vow - Dig Vrata/Limitation of Directions): This vow involves limiting one's movement and activities in specific directions. It advises letting go of attachments to the transient world to avoid wandering through countless rebirths.
  • Verse 11 (Seventh Vow - Bhogopabhoga Parimana Vrata/Limitation of Consumption): One should control the enjoyment of sensory pleasures. Those who control their five senses easily cross the ocean of existence.
  • Verse 12 (Eighth Vow - Anartha-danda Virati Vrata/Abstaining from Useless Harm): This vow is about refraining from actions that cause unnecessary harm. The text mentions that there are many aspects to dharma that cannot be fully described by one person.
  • Verse 13 (Ninth Vow - Samayika/Equanimity): This vow involves practicing Samayika (meditation or equanimity), performing Pratikramana (confession and atonement), and chanting. Daily worship of the Jinesvara (Tirthankara) helps in eradicating afflictive karma.
  • Verse 14 (Tenth Vow - Desha Virati/Limited Renunciation): This vow signifies a partial withdrawal from worldly activities to prevent the cycle of birth and death. It means not letting the mind wander in all ten directions but following the path of the Tirthankaras.
  • Verse 15 (Eleventh Vow - Upavasa/Fasting): Observing fasts (like fasting for a day) is encouraged. This practice leads to a dwelling place in liberation.
  • Verse 16 (Twelfth Vow - Atithi Samvibhaga/Charity to the Deserving): This vow emphasizes the importance of offering charity to the deserving, particularly to those who are spiritually inclined (Atithi).
  • Verses 16-18: Illustrative Example of Charity: The text illustrates the merit of charity with an example of a person named Chandanbal, who performed a meritorious act of giving food once in a month, which resulted in immense spiritual benefit and heavenly pleasures. It mentions this event occurring in the city of Kosambi.
  • Verse 19: Conclusion and Final Message: The work concludes by urging lay followers to diligently observe the twelve vows with unwavering devotion. The overarching message is that non-violence (Jivadaya) is the essence of all dharma.

Significance:

"Shravak Dwadash Vrat Chatushpadika" serves as a foundational text for lay Jains, providing a clear and concise outline of their spiritual responsibilities. Its 15th-century origin in Apabhramsha makes it a valuable historical document in Jain literature, preserving the teachings in an older linguistic form. The emphasis on Samyaktva and Jivadaya underscores the core tenets of Jainism, guiding adherents towards a righteous life and ultimately, spiritual liberation.