Upadhyaya Padni Mahatta

This document, "Upadhyaya Padni Mahatta" (The Significance of the Upadhyaya Post) by Ramanlal C Shah, explores the profound importance of the Upadhyaya, one of the five supreme beings (Panch Parmeshthi) in Jainism, as represented in the Navkar Mantra.

The text begins by contextualizing the Navkar Mantra, emphasizing the veneration of the Panch Parmeshthi: Arihants, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and Sadhus. It highlights that Arihants and Siddhas embody divine essence, while Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and Sadhus represent the Guru principle. The mantra itself, encompassing these five, is described as the primary auspicious element. True faith in God, Guru, and Dharma is presented as essential for spiritual progress, and the Navkar Mantra is crucial in this journey, even more so than rigorous asceticism or adherence to conduct if it lacks devotion to the mantra.

A key discussion point is the necessity of separately saluting Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and Sadhus in the Navkar Mantra, rather than using a single term like "Guru." While Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and Sadhus are all fundamentally "Shramanas" (ascetics) and share qualities like adherence to the five observances (Panchachar), vows, self-control, penance, and tolerance, there are hierarchical distinctions in spiritual development. The text argues that the distinct salutations acknowledge the progressive stages of spiritual attainment, from a novice Sadhu to an ideal Acharya.

The author then delves into the indispensable role of the Upadhyaya. It is argued that the position of Upadhyaya is not merely beneficial but essential for the systematic propagation of the Jain faith, particularly the path to liberation as taught by the Tirthankaras. Upadhyayas are crucial in conveying this knowledge to the masses, especially to the fully renunciant Sadhus. The text emphasizes the ideal Upadhyaya as a holder of scripture (Shrutgyani), whose absence could lead to the rapid decline of the path to liberation.

The etymology and definitions of "Upadhyaya" are explored through various classical Jain texts. Primarily, an Upadhyaya is one to whom one goes to study. They are described as those who impart knowledge, refresh the memory of Jain teachings, and through their presence and guidance, facilitate the acquisition of scriptural understanding. They are also characterized as those who have conquered inner afflictions like anger, possess good intellect, and have dispelled negative tendencies.

The text meticulously details the 25 virtues attributed to Upadhyayas. These include mastery over the eleven Angas (primary scriptural texts) and fourteen Purvas (ancient scriptures). The virtues also encompass adherence to Charansittari (seventy principles related to conduct) and Karansittari (seventy principles related to actions), which are elaborate sets of practices for ascetics. The 25 virtues can also be understood as 11 qualities related to the Angas and 14 qualities related to the Purvas. Another enumeration includes the 11 Angas, 12 Upangas (secondary scriptural texts), Nandisutra, and Anuyog-sutra. Further interpretations combine qualities of the Angas, Charansittari, Karansittari, Prabhavana (propagation of teachings), and the control of mind, speech, and body.

The text draws parallels between the roles of an Upadhyaya and a Yuvaraj (crown prince), suggesting that in the absence of an Acharya, an Upadhyaya often takes on significant responsibilities for the welfare of the monastic order (Gachha). They are described as being equal to Acharyas in many aspects, with the primary difference being that Acharyas explain the deeper meanings of scriptures, while Upadhyayas teach the literal meaning. However, in essence, both are considered one in their ultimate spiritual pursuit.

The importance of knowledge dissemination and teaching is highlighted as the core duty of an Upadhyaya. They are expected to be diligent in their own studies and in teaching others. Their conduct must be exemplary, inspiring their disciples. The text cites the example of Vajraswami, who, despite his young age, possessed the unique ability to effectively teach older monks, even those with weaker intellects, leading them to spiritual understanding.

The spiritual significance of venerating the Upadhyaya is further elaborated through the concept of colors associated with the Panch Parmeshthi. The Upadhyaya is associated with the color blue. This color symbolizes calmness, pleasantness, and the ability to alleviate fatigue and resolve doubts, mirroring the Upadhyaya's role in guiding disciples. Blue is also linked to the dispelling of obstacles and the calming of negative influences.

The text connects the Navkar Mantra to elemental powers and astrology, stating that the Upadhyaya mantra, "Om Hreem Namo Uvajjhayanam," is prescribed for pacifying the planet Mercury. It also details the ritualistic worship of the Upadhyaya, which involves specific practices like performing 25 "Sathiyas" (auspicious symbols), 25 prostrations, 25 circumambulations, and reciting the mantra 20 times, with each prostration and circumambulation dedicated to one of the 25 virtues. The choice of green colored foods, like mung beans, for fasting (Ayambil) is also associated with the Upadhyaya.

Finally, the document praises numerous eminent Upadhyayas throughout Jain history, such as Shri Hira vijayasuri's disciples like Upadhyaya Bhanuchandrasuri and Shantichandrasuri, and the prolific writer Upadhyaya Yashovijayji, who is considered a pinnacle among them. The text concludes by reiterating that Upadhyayas are the pillars of the Jain tradition, essential for the continuity of knowledge, and their veneration, through devotion, recitation, and meditation, is instrumental in overcoming the cycle of birth and death and achieving liberation.