Upadhyaya Padni Mahatta - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Upadhyaya Padni Mahatta" (The Greatness of the Upadhyaya Position) by Ramanlal C Shah, based on the provided pages:

The text "Upadhyaya Padni Mahatta" delves deeply into the significance and virtues of the Upadhyaya position within the Panch Parmeshthi (the five supreme beings) of Jainism, emphasizing its crucial role in preserving and transmitting spiritual knowledge.

Core Concepts and the Navkar Mantra:

The text begins by explaining the Navkar Mantra, the central prayer of Jainism, which honors the five supreme beings: Arihant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyaya, and Sadhu.
Arihant and Siddha represent the divine essence, while Acharya, Upadhyaya, and Sadhu embody the guru (spiritual teacher) element. The mantra's concluding verses represent the essence of Dharma (righteousness).
True faith in these three elements (God, Guru, Dharma) is essential for achieving Samyakva (right faith). Without genuine appreciation for the Navkar Mantra, other spiritual practices may not yield significant results. A quote emphasizes that even extensive penance, virtuous conduct, and scriptural study are futile without devotion to the Navkar Mantra.

The Necessity of Differentiating Gurus:

The text addresses a potential question: why are Acharya, Upadhyaya, and Sadhu each addressed with separate salutations in the Navkar Mantra, when "Guru" could suffice?
While all three are fundamentally "Sramanas" (ascetics) and share core principles like the five vows, equanimity, penance, and endurance, there are subtle yet crucial differences in their spiritual progression and roles.
The distinction is necessary to acknowledge the developmental stages from a novice Sadhu to an ideal Acharya. Therefore, separate salutations highlight these distinct stages and responsibilities.

The Indispensable Role of the Upadhyaya:

The central thesis is that the position of Upadhyaya is not merely important but essential for the systematic functioning and continuity of the Jain tradition.
Upadhyayas are the custodians and disseminators of spiritual knowledge (Shruta Jnana), particularly the teachings of the Tirthankaras. They ensure this knowledge is effectively transmitted to all, especially the ascetics.
Without Upadhyayas, the path to liberation (Moksha Marg) would quickly become obscured and lost. The inclusion of "Namo Uvajjhayanam" (Salutations to the Upadhyayas) in the eternal Navkar Mantra underscores its profound significance.

Definitions and Qualities of an Upadhyaya:

The text provides multiple definitions and elaborations on the term "Upadhyaya" from various authoritative Jain scriptures:

Etymology: The word "Upadhyaya" signifies one from whom one studies, from whom one gains profit (knowledge) by residing near them, or to whom one frequently goes for learning. It also refers to those who refresh the knowledge of Jin's teachings.
Hemchandracharya: Defines an Upadhyaya simply as a "teacher" or "one who causes to be read."
Acharya Kunda-kunda (Niyamsara): Describes Upadhyayas as those who are united with the Three Jewels (Samyak Darshan, Samyak Gyan, Samyak Charitra), are valiant in teaching the principles expounded by Jinas, and possess a desireless nature.
Dhavala (Digambara tradition): Defines Upadhyayas as those who have entered the vast ocean of the fourteen Purvas and, dwelling on the path to liberation, impart teachings to ascetics who uphold chastity and are aspiring for liberation.
The 25 Virtues: The text details the 25 virtues attributed to Upadhyayas, which are often categorized in different ways:
- 11 Angas and 12 Upangas: They study these scriptures themselves and teach them to others in the monastic community (Gachha).
- Charana Sattari and Karana Sattari: They uphold and cause others to uphold the seventy principles related to conduct (Charitra) and seventy principles related to actions (Kriya).
- 11 Angas and 14 Purvas: Another classification lists eleven virtues associated with the Angas and fourteen with the Purvas, totaling 25.
- 12 Angas, 12 Upangas, Nandi Sutra, and Anuyoga Sutra: Another count of 25 includes these texts.
- 12 Virtues of Angas, one virtue of Charana Sattari, one of Karana Sattari, eight virtues of Prabhavana, and three virtues of Man, Vachan, and Kaya (Yoga): This is another way to arrive at 25 virtues.
The text emphasizes that these 25 virtues are sometimes further elaborated, leading to a potential count of 625 (25x25), though some virtues may overlap.

Distinction from Acharya and Sadhu:

While Upadhyayas are distinct from Sadhus and Acharyas, they share significant commonalities. The text highlights that the gap in the spiritual progression between a Sadhu and an Upadhyaya is greater than that between an Upadhyaya and an Acharya.
In terms of community management, an Acharya holds a higher position, but Upadhyayas often share many qualities and responsibilities with Acharyas.
The text draws a parallel between the king and the crown prince (Yuvraj). Just as a Yuvraj takes on the king's responsibilities in his absence, an Upadhyaya, who is worthy of the Acharya position, looks after the welfare of the Gachha. Therefore, saluting them dispels the fear of worldly existence.
Upadhyayas are likened to Yuvraj, supporting the Acharya (Suriji). They possess the qualities of an Acharya but may not have the same level of authority or responsibility for overall organizational management.

The Upadhyaya's Conduct and Devotion:

Despite their dedication to studying and teaching scriptures, Upadhyayas meticulously maintain their vows and ascetic practices. They not only impart knowledge but also explain its deeper meanings and ensure their disciples do not become negligent in their practices.
Their minds are constantly engaged in contemplating the scriptures, understanding not just the literal meaning but also the hidden secrets and profound truths. They are absorbed in their inner selves.
The text stresses their unwavering dedication, comparing their need for scriptures to a fish's need for water. They never tire of studying or teaching and are always ready to clarify doubts with patience, enthusiasm, and equanimity, even when faced with difficult or agitated individuals.
They teach according to the capacity of the student, exemplified by the story of Muni Masatumas, who was taught the phrase "Ma tush ma rush" (Do not be sad, do not be angry) which, when misremembered as "Masatus," still led him to profound spiritual realization due to his earnest devotion.
Negligence in teaching or studying incurs fault and requires atonement. The ideal Upadhyaya inspires interest and zeal in their disciples, fostering respect through immense compassion.

Significance of Salutation and Meditation:

The text emphasizes that saluting, chanting, and meditating on the Upadhyaya position holds immense importance.
According to Avashyak Nirukti, saluting an Upadhyaya liberates one from thousands of lifetimes, helps in the attainment of Bodhi (enlightenment), destroys the cycle of birth and death, and is the primary auspicious element.
The text also discusses the color associated with the Upadhyaya position, which is blue (or green). This color symbolizes peace, satisfaction, and the dispelling of worldly fears and fatigue. Meditation on this color, like that of a sapphire, brings coolness and joy. In Mantrashastra, the blue color is recommended for warding off obstacles and inauspiciousness, aligning with the Upadhyaya's role in removing ignorance.

Upadhyaya's Role in the Navkar Mantra and Worship:

The text explains the connection between the syllables of the Navkar Mantra and the five elements. The mantra "Namo Uvajjhayanam" is linked to various elements, and the mantra "Om Hrim Namo Uvajjhayanam" is prescribed for appeasing the planet Budh (Mercury).
In the worship of the Navapada (the nine auspicious entities), the Upadhyaya position is worshipped on the fourth day. This involves performing 25 specific actions, including making 25 "Sathiyas" (auspicious symbols), offering 25 salutations, circumambulating 25 times, and reciting the mantra 20 times.
Each salutation is accompanied by a specific virtue of the Upadhyaya, honoring the 11 Angas and 14 Purvas, totaling 25 virtues.
The text suggests using green-colored offerings and food items (like green gram for 'Ayanbil') on this day, reflecting the Upadhyaya's associated color. The aspiration during this worship is to gain the power to teach scriptures and overcome karmic impediments to achieve liberation.

Illustrious Upadhyayas:

The text mentions several eminent Upadhyayas who have greatly contributed to Jainism, including:

Shri Sakalchandraji Upadhyaya (creator of Sattar Bhedi Puja)
Shri Bhanuchandraji Upadhyaya and Shri Shantichandraji Upadhyaya (disciples of Shri Hiravijaya Suri)
Shri Samayasundarji, Shri Meghavijayji, Shri Manavijayji, Shri Kalyanvijayji, Shri Siddhihandraji, Shri Kirtivijayji (authors of many compositions).
Shri Vinayavijayji, Shri Yashovijayji (creator of Shripal Ras and Punyaprakash Stavan), and Shri Devachandraji Maharaj.

The text highlights Shri Yashovijayji Upadhyaya as a paramount figure, whose extensive literary contributions have significantly elevated the status of the Upadhyaya position, to the point where the title "Upadhyaya Maharaj" is almost synonymous with his name.

Conclusion:

The book "Upadhyaya Padni Mahatta" profoundly emphasizes that Upadhyayas are the pillars of the Jain Shasan (dispensation). They are the source of scriptural knowledge, likened to a mother's affection in nurturing disciples. Endowed with virtues like forgiveness, straightforwardness, humility, and freedom from desire and pride, they are essential for maintaining the tradition of spiritual learning. The high ideal of the Upadhyaya in Jain philosophy justifies their rightful and significant place within the Panch Parmeshthi and the Navkar Mantra. True salutations, chanting, and meditation directed towards them are instrumental in overcoming the cycle of birth and death and achieving liberation.