Upasakadhyayan

This Jain text, the Upasakadhyayan, is an important work within Jain literature, specifically focusing on the conduct and duties of a householder (Shravak). Here's a comprehensive summary based on the provided text:

1. Origin and Identity:

• The Upasakadhyayan is not a standalone text but rather the final three chapters (Ashwasas) of the renowned 10th-century Sanskrit poem "Yashastilaka Champu" by Somadeva Suri.
• These final chapters, dealing with the conduct of householders, became so well-known that they are published and recognized as a separate work under the title "Upasakadhyayan".
• The author, Somadeva Suri, was a prominent Jain scholar and poet of the 10th century.
• The text was edited and translated by Siddhantacharya Pt. Kailash Chandra Shastri, a renowned scholar of Jain philosophy and doctrine. Bharatiya Gyanpith published the first edition in 1964 and a subsequent edition in 2013.

2. Key Content and Uniqueness:

• The Upasakadhyayan meticulously details the religious and ethical conduct expected of a Jain householder (Shravak).
• A significant feature of this work is its comprehensive discussion of the ethical and philosophical principles of not only Jainism but also numerous other Indian religious and philosophical schools. These include Vaisheshika, Pashupata, Shaiva, Bauddha (Buddhist), Jaiminiya, and Charvaka (materialist) traditions. This makes it valuable for understanding inter-religious dialogue and philosophical debates of the time.

3. The "Yashastilaka Champu" Context:

• The broader work, "Yashastilaka Champu," narrates the story of King Yashodhara. The final chapters, forming the Upasakadhyayan, present the teachings of Jainism to the householder, specifically the King Yashodhara after his conversion.

4. Editorial and Scholarly Merit:

• Pt. Kailash Chandra Shastri's work is highly regarded. He meticulously edited and translated the text using available ancient manuscripts and printed copies.
• He also contributed a substantial introduction (around 90 pages), enhancing the text's utility and providing valuable context. This introduction draws upon the work of scholars like Dr. Handiqui while also presenting Shastriji's independent research, particularly from a Jain philosophical perspective.
• The edition includes a Sanskrit commentary (Tika) by Shri Jinvdas, compiled with the permission of the Jain Sanskriti Sanrakshak Sangh, Sholapur. This Tika is crucial for understanding the text's complexities and preserving the tradition of ancient Jain scholarship.

5. Themes and Structure (as suggested by the Introduction's Table of Contents):

The introduction and subject matter indicate a structured approach to Jain lay ethics and philosophy, covering:

• The narrative of Yashastilaka: Understanding the story and its philosophical context.
• Religious themes within Yashastilaka: Discussion of Jain principles interwoven with the narrative.
• Somadeva and his era: Historical and biographical information about the author and his time.
• The Upasakadhyayan's subject matter and significance: Defining its scope and importance.
• Influences on Somadeva: Examining the impact of previous acharyas like Samantabhadra, Jinasean, Gunabhadra, and Devasean.
• Discussion of various philosophical schools: Critically analyzing the doctrines of Vaisheshika, Shaiva, Saankhya, Bauddha, Jaiminiya, Charvaka, Vedanta, and others, focusing on their views on conduct and liberation.
• Cultural exchange and socio-religious practices: Discussing aspects like the caste system (Varnavyavastha), inter-community relations (Sadharmī Vyavahār), the status of ascetics and monks, charity, idol worship, Vedic rituals, and the worship of deities like Digpalas.
• Comparative analysis of Shravakacharas (Lay Ethics): This forms the latter part of the introduction, detailing:
  • The foundational vows (Mulgunas).
  • The chronological development of Shravakacharas.
  • The six duties of a Shravak (Shatkarma).
  • The five minor vows (Anuvratas) and their transgressions.
  • The three class vows (Guna-vratas) and four training vows (Shiksha-vratas).
  • The stages of lay practice (Pratimās), including the detailed description of the eleven stages.
  • The importance of contemplation and meditation (Dhyana).
  • The practice of charity (Dān) and its methods.
  • The concept of idol worship and its rituals.
  • The detailed explanation of worship rituals.
  • The Panchamrita Abhisheka (ritual bathing with five nectars).
  • The Vedic puja method and its discussion.
  • The worship of Digpalas and other deities.

6. Purpose and Value:

• The Upasakadhyayan serves as a guide for Jain householders, outlining how to live a life of religious merit and ethical uprightness in accordance with Jain principles.
• Its inclusion of other philosophical schools highlights Somadeva's encyclopedic knowledge and his intention to present Jainism within the broader Indian philosophical landscape, offering comparative insights.
• Pt. Kailash Chandra Shastri's scholarly contribution, including the detailed introduction and inclusion of the Tika, makes this edition a foundational resource for studying Jain lay ethics and the work of Somadeva Suri.

In essence, the Upasakadhyayan, as a part of the Yashastilaka Champu, is a significant Jain text that provides a comprehensive framework for the ethical and religious life of a householder, enriched by its engagement with diverse philosophical traditions and its detailed exposition of Jain practices.