Shravaktva Ka Suraksha Kavach

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Shravaktva ka Suraksha Kavach" by Sadhvi Kalpalatashreeji, based on the provided pages:

The book "Shravaktva ka Suraksha Kavach" (The Protective Shield of a Lay Follower) by Sadhvi Kalpalatashreeji emphasizes the crucial role and ethical framework of the shravak (lay follower) within Jainism. The text highlights a perceived disconnect between traditional Jain scriptures and the contemporary lives of shravakas, advocating for a reinterpretation and practical application of these principles in the modern era.

The Broad Vision of Lord Mahavir and the Importance of the Shravak:

The text begins by contrasting the common perception of religious figures (monks, priests, etc.) with Lord Mahavir's expansive view of Jainism. He established a four-fold religious order encompassing angaar (monks/nuns) and aagaar (lay followers), acknowledging both as integral parts of the Jain Sangha. Both shravakas and ascetics are given equal rights in terms of responsibilities and spiritual practice, with an emphasis on their interdependence. This mutual reliance is presented as a unique aspect of Mahavir's philosophy.

The Decline of Traditional Shravak Identity:

The author notes that the shravak community, like others, has been influenced by imported cultures and the fast-paced economic environment. This has led to a gradual erosion of the distinct identity and practices described in the ancient Jain scriptures (Agamas). The text argues that it is not just necessary but a demand of the times to present the ancient shravak conduct, thought processes, and behavioral guidelines in a language and context relevant to the current era.

The Role of Gurudev and the Transformation of Jainism:

The book acknowledges the efforts of "Gurudev" (likely referring to a prominent Jain spiritual leader) in making Jainism accessible to the masses while preserving its core principles. The Anuvrat movement is cited as a prime example of this approach. The text credits the development and adherence to both scriptural and character-based principles for the perceived synonymous relationship between the Terapanth Sangha and Jainism today.

The Foundation of a Balanced Sangha:

A balanced development of the Sangha, the author asserts, is dependent on the dynamism of all its components. The shravak, while fulfilling social, familial, and national duties, also progresses on the path of self-cultivation. Maintaining the spirit of mumuksha (desire for liberation) requires constant inspiration. Shravakas are seen as the fundamental pillars supporting both worldly and spiritual responsibilities. Their preservation ensures the continuity of tradition and culture.

Defining the Shravak: The "Shramanoopasak":

The text delves into the meaning of "Shramanoopasak" (one who reveres and serves the shramanas or ascetics), a term used for shravakas in the Agamas. It emphasizes that understanding the depth of this term is crucial for paving the correct path for a shravak. A shravak is defined as one who is a vigilant listener to the scriptures.

The Prerequisites for Becoming a Shravak:

Unlike other religious traditions where the practice of knowledge, right perception, and right conduct might not be mandatory for householders, the initial requirement for becoming a shravak is pratyakhyan (renunciation of certain actions or desires). The text states that a shravak's life becomes meaningful only after learning the basics of knowledge, perception, and conduct. Gurudev has provided guidelines for minimum yet essential spiritual practices, including:

• Understanding of Navatattva: Easy comprehension of the nine fundamental principles.
• Right Perception and Right Knowledge: Pursuit of these.

The text questions how one can progress as a shravak without pratyakhyan and how to "read the book of life" without basic literacy.

The Twelve Vows and Modern Relevance:

The book clearly explains the scriptural provisions for the twelve vows (Bara Vrat) that guide a shravak on the path of self-cultivation. The author highlights that their relevance in modern contexts can spark new insights for intellectually inclined individuals. However, the acceptance of vows should not incapacitate one's efforts (purushartha). Conversely, the excessive consumption of resources is seen as a symptom of ignorance, fueling the "maha-rog" (great disease) of wealth. The imbalance between these extremes has become a global issue. Gurudev's teachings aim to guide the shravak community towards balance.

Balance and Ethical Conduct:

The text advises against considering poverty as a loss of pride and wealth as a curse. Begging is linked to loss of respect and mental distress. While earning wealth through agriculture, commerce, or labor is encouraged, engagement in detestable or hateful occupations (jugupsit karmaadan) must be avoided. Qualities like fear of sin (paapbhiruta), detachment (vairagya), and self-control (sanyam) are presented as adornments that distinguish a shravak from an ordinary person. A shravak should not be a problem for others and should not contribute to escalating problems. Their aim is to stand on a theoretical foundation rather than be swept away by the currents of the age.

Resisting Cultural Erosion and Maintaining Jain Values:

The increasing prevalence of "ap-sanskriti" (negative or alien culture) has not spared the shravak community. This has led to the infiltration of values that are incompatible with Jain culture. The growing mindset of lack of restraint, attachment to material possessions, materialistic outlook, opportunism, and the decline of cultural values directly attack Jain traditions. When an era discards old values and fails to establish universally accepted new ones, it becomes difficult for society to avoid undesirable events. As social customs change and boundaries lose their value, mental health and the national atmosphere also become distorted. Gurudev's intention is for shravakas to take a new direction with conscious awareness. Therefore, he has provided a significant dimension of Jain lifestyle, incorporating practical points into daily routines that are beneficial for individuals, families, society, states, and the nation.

Practical Guidelines for Daily Life:

The book suggests practical guidelines for daily living, including:

• Limiting food and clothing.
• Avoiding wastage of water and electricity.
• Moderating travel.
• Practicing silence.
• Daily self-study (swadhyaya).
• Practicing detachment (anaasakti).
• Engaging in service to the Sangha.
• Maintaining cleanliness.

Family Harmony and Cultural Continuity:

The text highlights that personal transformation and societal well-being significantly contribute to a peaceful domestic life. It points out that if individuals from one religion adopt the customs and festivals of another, it can lead to rifts in family harmony. It is important for individuals to embrace their ingrained values and make them an integral part of their lives. This will prevent the need for blaming or issuing directives to future generations. Parents are urged to make Jain customs and rituals universally accepted.

Celebrating Life with Jain Principles:

The book encourages celebrating life's milestones and festivals with Jain principles, whether it's the birth of a child, marriage, or occasions like Lord Mahavir's birthday, Diwali, birthdays, or Akshaya Tritiya.

The Importance of Clear Goals and Consistent Effort:

Life's journey becomes difficult when one's goals are unclear and there is a lack of consistent effort towards achieving them. The text emphasizes that Jainism should be evident in all actions, from daily etiquette to major festivals. A shravak's dignified conduct should reflect their commitment to Jainism.

Inspiration from Historical Figures:

The book underscores the importance of those who are willing to die for their principles and who do not compromise their faith in any situation. These individuals not only protect the names of their deities, gurus, and religion but also live by them, becoming role models for future generations. Historical examples like Ambad Muni's attempt to mislead Sulsa, Sarathi's challenge to Dharini's chastity, Sati Subhadra's demonstration of purity, and the devotion of individuals like Jayanti, Anand Shravak, Saddalputra, Sudarshan, and Shankhapokhali are cited. The shravakas associated with the early days of the Terapanth Sangha are also mentioned as sources of inspiration due to their firm faith, understanding, and sacrifice. Gurudev's inclusion of these figures in his teachings aims to enrich the present with the legacy of the past.

Making Tattvajnana Accessible:

The text praises Gurudev's effortless approach to making minimum tattvajnana (knowledge of principles) accessible to the youth, who might otherwise find it dry. The language used to express these principles is simple enough for children to memorize. Examples are provided, such as verses explaining the distinction between living and non-living beings, merit and demerit, and the concepts of influx, stoppage, efflux, bondage, and liberation. The meaning of the characteristics of right perception (samyak darshan) is also made easy to understand.

The Path to Right Perception and Right Conduct:

Right perception is identified as the primary component that guarantees liberation. The book outlines the need to understand the theoretical aspects of faith in a guru and act in accordance with those principles. This includes:

• Daily chanting of the Namokar Mantra with breath control.
• Regular practice of Sāmayik (equanimity meditation).
• Self-study as sustenance for life.
• Cultivating a dignified and auspicious appearance.
• The practice of Paramēṣṭhi Vandana and Arhat Vandana for spiritual awakening.
• Observing Pratikraman (confession and repentance) and Khamāsamana (mutual forgiveness) as part of a shravak's routine.

Shravak in Various Professions and National Responsibility:

The book asserts that a shravak can be a businessman, doctor, government employee, or even a general. However, it raises a crucial question: how can a shravak bound by vows fulfill their duties, especially when faced with national security concerns where they might have to make difficult choices between protecting religion and national safety?

Gurudev's perspective is that this is a misconception or a misunderstanding of the facts. Firstly, a shravak is a householder, not a renunciate. Secondly, while they may cause harm, it is not done with the intention of causing harm. The text states that a shravak is mindful of even the smallest acts of unintentional harm, even to an ant, and remains cautious of wastage, considering it a form of violence. Shravakas do not hesitate to contribute their wealth, people, or strength when the Sangha, society, or country requires it. Historical events are presented as evidence of this commitment.

The Essence of Shravaktva:

The "Shravak Sambodh" (address to the shravak) is considered a comprehensive guide that will illuminate future generations. The importance lies not in newness or oldness, but in the process of moving closer to one's goal with awareness. This is the complete lifestyle of a shravak, which empowers them to move forward through their own efforts, rather than being dictated by circumstances, fate, or destiny. This way of life ensures the preservation of the self, the shravak's personality, and the contributions of Jainism.