Shravaka Dharma Swaroop Part 2

Here's a comprehensive summary of "Shravaka Dharma Swaroop Part 2" by Buddhisagar, based on the provided text:

This book, "Shravaka Dharma Swaroop Part 2," authored by the ascetic Munimaharaj Shri Buddhisagar, is a continuation of the first part, which discussed the twenty-one qualities of a Shravaka (lay follower). This second part delves into the seventeen qualities of a Bhava Shravaka (a truly devoted lay follower), elucidated through references to religious texts.

The central theme of the book is to define who can be called a true Shravaka and what the concept of a Bhava Shravaka truly entails. The author, following the teachings of his guru, elaborates on several key aspects:

• Relationship between Shravakas and Sadhus (Monks): The text explores the connection and mutual support between lay followers and ascetics.
• Types of Ideal Shravakas: It categorizes excellent Shravakas into four types, comparing them to parents, brothers, friends, and even a co-wife (showing different levels of selfless service and support), and discusses which type is most beneficial and praiseworthy.
• Distinction between Restrained (Virati) and Unrestrained (Avirati) Shravakas: The book clarifies the difference between those who have taken vows and those who have not.
• Attributes of a True Bhava Shravaka: It highlights the primary characteristics of a genuine lay follower, emphasizing their devotion and adherence to principles.
• The Twelve Vows: The names of the twelve vows (Anuvratas, Gunavratas, and Shikshavratas) are mentioned.
• Guidance on Who Can Impart Religious Teachings: The text discusses who is qualified to give spiritual advice.
• Appropriate Conduct and Practices: It details various aspects of a Bhava Shravaka's life, including:
  • The types of ordeals (upsarga) they might face.
  • The ideal places they should reside.
  • The manner of dress they should adopt.
  • The way they should speak and interact.
  • The homes they should enter.
  • The actions they should refrain from.
  • How they should engage in self-study (swadhyay) and other religious practices in the presence of ascetics.
  • The proper way to sit and ask questions respectfully before a guru.
  • How to manage and resolve inner conflicts (vikalpa).
  • How to earn a livelihood.
• The Five Primary Inclinations (Ruchi): The book outlines the five types of interests a Bhava Shravaka should cultivate.
• Devotion to Jain Teachings and Ascetics: It emphasizes the deep affection and faith a Bhava Shravaka should have for the teachings of the Jinas and the ascetics.
• The Six "Lingas" (Marks) of Action: The text describes six outward signs or indicators of a Bhava Shravaka's actions.

The author notes that while each of these topics could fill entire books, the aim was to present them concisely so that the book can be read and contemplated frequently. The book aims to enable readers to understand the qualities that a true Shravaka must possess and how such qualities can lead to the aspiration for monastic life.

The preface concludes by expressing the hope that both parts of "Shravaka Dharma Swaroop" will be highly beneficial for Shravakas in fulfilling their duties and aspiring towards the noble path of monasticism. The publication was supported by a donation in memory of Seth Jechandbhai Khimchand Ladarawala.

Key Classifications of Shravakas:

The book also elaborates on the classifications of Shravakas as described in scriptures, particularly highlighting the four types of Shramanopasak (lay devotees):

1. Amhapriya Saman (Like Parents): These Shravakas exhibit deep love, care, and support for the monastic community, protecting their honor and promoting their virtues, much like parents protect and nurture their children.
2. Bhrata Saman (Like Brothers): These Shravakas offer heartfelt support, share in the joys and sorrows of ascetics, and stand by them through difficulties, demonstrating brotherly affection.
3. Mitra Saman (Like Friends): These Shravakas are close confidants, offering advice and support, and maintaining an intimate bond with the ascetics, sharing their private matters with discretion.
4. Shakyas Saman (Like Rivals/Enemies): This category describes those Shravakas who are critical, find faults, spread rumors, and harbor jealousy towards ascetics. The book strongly advises against this behavior.

Other Classified Shravakas:

The text further categorizes Shravakas based on their behavior and understanding:

• Patal-sama (Like a Cloth): Those who are easily swayed by others' opinions and lack firm conviction, changing their beliefs readily.
• Sthanu-sama (Like a Pillar): Those who are stubborn and refuse to change their wrong ways despite guidance.
• Kharant-sama (Like a Scraper/Defamer): Those who criticize and defame their gurus and the monastic order.
• Arisya-sama (Like a Mirror): Those who reflect the teachings accurately and hold true to the principles.

Qualities of a Bhava Shravaka (Seventeen Virtues):

The book then systematically details the seventeen virtues of a Bhava Shravaka, including:

1. Understanding of Woman, Sense Objects, Wealth, Family, Home, etc.: Recognizing their impermanent nature.
2. Non-attachment to Sensory Pleasures: Understanding that sensory pleasures are fleeting and do not bring lasting happiness.
3. Detachment from Wealth and Possessions: Recognizing wealth as a source of trouble and not being attached to it.
4. Detachment from the Worldly Cycle (Sansar): Understanding the painful nature of the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.
5. Renunciation of Sensory Pleasures: Understanding that sensory pleasures are like poison and do not lead to true satisfaction.
6. Avoidance of Intense Commotion/Activities (Tivra Arambha): Practicing non-violence and minimizing harm to living beings.
7. Dispassion towards Worldly Life: Seeing household life as a prison and striving to break free.
8. Faith in Jain Principles (Astikya) and Devotion to Gurus: Upholding the teachings and showing respect to spiritual guides.
9. Rejection of Herd Mentality: Not blindly following the crowd or tradition without critical thought.
10. Adherence to Jain Scriptures (Jinaagam): Understanding that Jain scriptures are the ultimate authority for spiritual practice.
11. Charitable Giving (Daan) according to Capacity: Generosity in a balanced way, without greed or waste.
12. Performing Virtuous Deeds without Shame: Practicing righteousness and religious observances without fear of ridicule.
13. Dispassion towards Body, Wealth, Family, and Home: Maintaining an indifferent attitude towards worldly attachments.
14. Equanimity and Non-attachment to Opinions: Maintaining a balanced perspective and avoiding stubbornness.
15. Recognizing the Impermanence of All Things: Understanding that all worldly things are fleeting.
16. Limited Engagement in Desired Pleasures: Participating in worldly affairs only as necessary and without excessive desire.
17. Living a Life of Detachment: Perceiving worldly life as a temporary abode and striving for liberation.

The book emphasizes that by cultivating these qualities, a lay follower can progress towards spiritual liberation and potentially embrace monasticism. The ultimate goal is to achieve a state of detachment and purity of the soul, leading to ultimate salvation.