Upasak Dashang Ek Anushilan - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Upasak Dashang Ek Anushilan" by Sushila Bohra:

Book Title: Upasak Dashang Ek Anushilan Author: Sushila Bohra Publisher: Z_Jinavani_003218.pdf Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/229815/1

This work, "Upasak Dashang Ek Anushilan" by Sushila Bohra, is an analysis of the Upasakadashang Sutra, an important Anga scripture in Jainism. The Upasakadashang Sutra narrates the life stories of ten prominent lay disciples (Shramanopasakas) of Lord Mahavir, such as Anand and Kamdev. The author highlights the exemplary lives of these lay followers who, after listening to Lord Mahavir's teachings, embraced twelve vows and dedicated their lives to spiritual practice. Despite their wealth and worldly possessions, they demonstrated strong faith and unwavering commitment to a life of renunciation, remaining unaffected even by divine interventions and trials.

The book emphasizes that the twelve Angas of the Jain Agamas, presented in sutra form by the Ganadharas, serve as a guide for spiritual aspirants to cross the ocean of existence. These Angas are categorized into Dravyanuyog, Charanuyog, Ganitanuyog, and Dharmakathanuyog, each offering a unique path to enlightenment. Lord Mahavir, like a loving parent, provided various teachings to protect beings from the cycle of birth and death.

Key Themes and Content:

Dharmakathanuyog and Shramanopasaka Life: The Upasakadashang Sutra is presented as an example of Dharmakathanuyog and is unique among the Angas for exclusively detailing the conduct of Shramanopasakas (lay disciples).
Angar and Agar Dharma: Jain philosophy distinguishes between Angar Dharma (uncompromising asceticism, like that of monks) and Agar Dharma (practice of vows with certain allowances, practiced by lay disciples). Angar Dharma, with its five Mahavratas, is akin to walking on the sharp edge of a sword, difficult for ordinary people. Shramanopasakas, by adhering to vows with allowances (Agar Sahit Vrat), are known as Anuvratis. The term "Upasaka" literally means one who sits near (the spiritual master) to receive knowledge and progress in spiritual practice.
Exemplary Lay Disciples: The sutra focuses on ten such Upasakas, inspired by Lord Mahavir, who made their lives meaningful. These disciples were wealthy, prosperous, and respected, leading disciplined, organized, and devout lives. The text illustrates how one can remain like a lotus in water (unaffected by worldly attachments) while living a householder's life.
Social and Economic Insights: The book uses the descriptions in the Upasakadashang to shed light on the social and economic conditions of that era. It mentions:
- The prevalence of cattle rearing and the involvement of Jains in farming and animal husbandry.
- The development of Ayurveda, as seen in the mention of "Shatpal" and "Sahasrapak" oils in the Abhyangan Vidhi.
- The standard of living of the wealthy, as reflected in Anand's vows regarding food, drink, and consumption.
- The custom of giving movable and immovable property as gifts during a daughter's marriage, which is equivalent to modern "Stridhan" (woman's wealth).
- The use of gold coins for transactions and the practice of owning slaves.
Transformative Power of Teachings: All the Shramanopasakas were endowed with wealth, prestige, and material comforts. However, upon hearing Lord Mahavir's teachings, their direction and circumstances changed; they became "Atmanandi" (finding joy in the self) from "Pudgalanandi" (finding joy in material possessions).
Instances of Divine Trials and Devotion: The text vividly describes how these lay disciples faced severe trials posed by deities who tried to tempt them away from their spiritual path. These trials included:
- Anand Shravak: Faced with divine illusions and threats, he remained steadfast. Even his ability to attain Avadhijnyan (clairvoyance) led to a significant event where Ganadhar Gautam sought his forgiveness, showcasing the paramount importance of humility and truth in Jainism.
- Kamdev: Resisted threats of violence, including being attacked by a demon in the form of a fierce elephant and poisonous snakes.
- Chulani Pita: Endured threats of his sons being killed and their flesh being cooked in oil and sprinkled on him.
- Suradev: Was threatened with the infliction of sixteen incurable diseases.
- Chullashatak: Faced threats similar to Suradev.
- Kundkolik: Was challenged with arguments promoting fatalism (Niyativad) by a divine being, to which he logically responded.
- Sakdalputra: Was initially influenced by Goshala's philosophy but was eventually guided by Lord Mahavir and remained unswayed by Goshala's attempts to dissuade him.
- Mahashatak: Despite facing a severe moral dilemma involving his wife Revati's horrific actions and his own harsh words, he eventually repented and passed away peacefully.
- Nandini Pitam and Salhi Pitam: These disciples also followed the path of adherence to vows and faced no significant external trials but maintained their devotion.
Common Virtues and Future Attainments: The ten Shramanopasakas exhibited remarkable resilience, faith, and adherence to their vows. They all observed the twelve vows, practiced the eleven Upasak Pratimas (stages of lay discipleship), endured severe trials, performed Sanlekhanā (a ritual of voluntary fasting for death), attained birth in the first heaven (Saudharma Kalpa) for four palyopam, and are destined to be born in Mahavideh Kshetra, attain omniscience, and achieve liberation.
Inspiration for Lay Disciples: The book serves as a guide for lay men and women, emphasizing the importance of organizing and disciplining one's family life, remaining vigilant about the latter half of life for spiritual pursuits, and not being swayed by misleading doctrines or challenges from deceptive deities.

In conclusion, "Upasak Dashang Ek Anushilan" provides a detailed analysis of the Upasakadashang Sutra, highlighting the profound devotion, spiritual strength, and exemplary lives of Lord Mahavir's ten chief lay disciples. It offers valuable lessons on faith, perseverance, humility, and the path to liberation for all followers of Jainism. The author's work underscores the enduring relevance of these ancient teachings for contemporary spiritual practice.