Upasakdasha And Anuttarau Papatikdasha Sutra Sachitra

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Upasakdasha and Anuttaraupapatikdasha Sutra Sachitra," based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Upasakdasha and Anuttaraupapatikdasha Sutra Sachitra Author(s): Amarmuni, Tarunmuni, Shreechand Surana, Trilok Sharma Publisher: Padma Prakashan

This beautifully illustrated Jain scripture presents two key texts within the Jain Agamas: the Upasak-dasha Sutra and the Anuttaraupapatik-dasha Sutra. Both texts are categorized under Dharmakathanuyog, meaning they primarily focus on narratives, stories, and examples to explain the principles of Dharma (righteous conduct).

Overall Context and Purpose:

The publication is an effort to make ancient Jain scriptures accessible through original texts, Hindi and English translations, and vibrant illustrations. It aims to spread the "beacon-light of Jina-Vani" (the teachings of the Tirthankaras) globally. The book is dedicated to the golden jubilee of the Diksha (initiation) of Up-pravartak Shri Amar Muni Ji M.

Key Jain Texts Covered:

1. Upasak-dasha Sutra:

   • Subject Matter: This scripture focuses on the ideal conduct of householders (Shravaks). It is considered the most complete text detailing Shravakachar (the conduct of a lay follower). The book emphasizes that while ascetic life is difficult and not for everyone, the householder's code is simple, beneficial, and essential for those seeking liberation.
   • Core Message: A true Shravak is an ideal citizen, guided by morality, contributing to society and nation, and possessing an "awakened soul." The text scientifically describes the vows of a Shravak, highlighting a balanced and restrained social code that allows individuals to remain religious while fulfilling family and societal responsibilities.
   • Ten Shravaks: The scripture narrates the life stories of ten prominent householders who were followers of Bhagavan Mahavir. These individuals were prosperous and had ample means for comfortable living but voluntarily chose restraint and dedication to religious code. Their selection emphasizes that true self-restraint is demonstrated by voluntarily accepting limitations, not by being poor. They were characterized by firm faith, courage, and adherence to Dharma in letter and spirit.
   • Meaning of Anu-Vrat: The vows of a householder are called Anu-Vrat (primary vows), signifying a mental determination with some exceptions, unlike the Maha-Vrat (great vows) of ascetics which are absolute. This distinction acknowledges the social, political, and family duties householders must balance.
   • Conduct and Characteristics: The Shravaks exemplified discretion in wealth management, judicious conduct, moral behavior, self-restraint, and self-control. They were influential, respected, and never brought disgrace to society. Their farsightedness and magnetic personality made them "Chakkhubhooe" (eyes of society), providing sound advice and encouraging good deeds.
   • Respect for Women: The narratives highlight the significant respect women commanded in that era, viewed as sources of strength, partners in religious activities, friends, and advisors. They were given independence in their religious choices.
   • Customs: The text touches upon the custom of slavery, emphasizing that Shravaks were humane towards servants, not trading them and ensuring their welfare. It also mentions the existence of Paushadhshalas (places for spiritual practices) for householders. Agriculture and cattle breeding were respectable professions, with prohibitions on violent or unethical trades.
   • Facing Turbulations: The stories illustrate how Shravaks faced tests and disturbances, often inflicted by divine beings, to refine their spiritual path. These trials tested their mental vigor, faith, and attachments, prompting introspection and correction. Examples include Kamdev, Chulanipita, Suradev, Chullashatak, Sakdalputra, Mahashatak, and Kundkaulik.
   • Acceptance of Vows: The vows are scientifically explained and categorized into:
     • Primary Vows (Sheel-Vrat): The five Anu-Vrats.
     • Qualitative Vows (Guna-Vrat): Vows that enhance inner qualities, discipline, and awareness.
     • Disciplinary Vows (Shiksha-Vrat): Four vows like Samayik that foster renunciation, discipline, spiritual practice, charity, and service.
   • Living and Dying: The Shravak's life stories teach not only how to live but also how to accept death through Samlekhana (controlled fasting and spiritual preparation), becoming "Mrityunjay" (conqueror of death).

2. Anuttaraupapatik-dasha Sutra:

   • Title Meaning: Anuttar refers to reaching the unparalleled best level or the detached life of beings reborn in higher heavenly abodes. Upapata relates to rebirth in such abodes. Dasha means state or conduct.
   • Subject Matter: This scripture complements the Upasak-dasha by describing the conduct of thirty-three monks who, after adopting asceticism, practiced stringent austerities, restraints, renunciation, compassion, and meditation for self-purification.
   • Focus on Renunciation: While some Shravaks in Upasak-dasha had prosperous lives, Anuttaraupapatik-dasha focuses on individuals like Dhanya Kumar and Abhay Kumar whose comfortable householder lives are briefly mentioned to highlight their subsequent profound detachment and renunciation. The emphasis is on their austere life and detachment, treating worldly comforts as obstacles to the goal of spiritual practice.
   • Abhay Kumar: He is presented as an intelligent, devout follower of Bhagavan Mahavir, serving as a bodyguard and prime minister. The scripture highlights his renunciation and austerities rather than his worldly achievements or parental worship.
   • Dhanya Anagar: The detailed description of Dhanya Anagar's extreme austerities and the weakening of his physical body serves as a thought-provoking literary piece illustrating profound spiritual commitment.
   • Shared Message: Both sutras convey the vital message of the importance of renunciation over enjoyment, mastering desires, and training the body towards austerities and perseverance.

Contributors and Publication:

The book is a collaborative effort, with editorial contributions from Amar Muni, Tarun Muni, and Srichand Surana. Dr. Trilok Sharma provided the illustrations. Padma Prakashan is the publisher. The publication is noted to be an "Illustrated Agam Publication Series: Book Ten."

Overall Significance:

This publication serves as a valuable resource for understanding the practical application of Jain principles in daily life and the path of spiritual pursuit. It emphasizes that true devotion and liberation can be achieved through righteous conduct, self-restraint, and renunciation, whether as a householder or an ascetic. The inclusion of illustrations makes the ancient teachings more accessible and engaging for a modern audience.