Updesh Prasad Part 02

This is a comprehensive summary of "Updesh Prasad Part 02" by Vishalsensuri, published by Virat Prakashan Mandir, based on the provided pages.

Book Title: Updesh Prasad Part 02 (ઉપદેશપ્રાસાદ ભાગ બીજો) Author: Acharya Shrimad Vijayvishalsensurishwarji Maharaj Saheb (Shri Virat) Publisher: Shri Virat Prakashan Mandir Language: Gujarati (with some Sanskrit and Prakrit terminology) Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/022158/1

Overview:

"Updesh Prasad Part 02" is the second volume of a comprehensive Mahagranth on Jain teachings, authored by Acharya Shrimad Vijayvishalsensurishwarji Maharaj Saheb (Shri Virat). This volume, like others in the series, aims to provide detailed spiritual guidance, particularly focusing on the ethical conduct and vows prescribed for householders (Shravaks) within the Jain tradition. The text is structured to explain the principles through narratives, examples, and interpretations of Jain scriptures.

Key Themes and Content:

This volume focuses on the Vrata Nirupan (વ્રત નિરૂપણ), detailing the vows and their associated principles for householders. It delves into the five Anuvratas (પ્રથમ અણુવ્રત) (minor vows), three Guna Vratas (ગુણવ્રત) (qualitative vows), and four Shikshavratas (શિક્ષાવ્રત) (disciplinary vows), forming the twelve vows prescribed for Jain lay followers.

Detailed Summary of Sections Covered in the Provided Pages:

The provided pages cover the initial sections of the Vrata Nirupan, with a strong emphasis on Ahimsa (અહિંસા), the first and foremost Anuvrata, and the foundational vow in Jainism.

1. Introduction to Vratas (Part 14):

   • The book introduces the concept of Vratas as the foundation of a householder's spiritual life, stemming from the attainment of Samyaktva (સમ્યક્ત્વ) (right faith).
   • It explains that the five Anuvratas, three Guna Vratas, and four Shikshavratas are the twelve vows preached by the Tirthankaras for householder dharma.

2. First Anuvrata: Ahimsa (First Anuvrata - First Vow: Non-violence) (Part 14-29):

   • Scope of Ahimsa: The vow of Ahimsa is explained as the renunciation of harming gross (sthula) living beings. It is accepted in various degrees (dvividh, trividh). The text clarifies that "gross beings" refer to beings with two or more senses, and also includes unnecessary harm to immovable beings (sthavar jeev).
   • Dvividh-Trividh Hinsa: The text elaborates on the twofold (dvividh) and threefold (trividh) aspects of violence:
     • Dvividh: Not harming and not causing harm.
     • Trividh: Not harming through mind, speech, or body.
   • Householder's Ahimsa: It's noted that householders take vows related to gross violence, acknowledging that complete renunciation of harm to subtle beings (sukshma jeev) is for monks.
   • Doubt Clarification: A potential doubt is addressed: If monks teach Ahimsa, does it imply permission to harm sthavar (immovable) beings? The text clarifies that householders' vows are about gross (tras) beings, and the vow is understood within the context of their worldly responsibilities.
   • Aupcharik Hinsa: The text explains that even householders who vow to avoid harm are not entirely free from causing it due to their worldly activities (like agriculture, house-building). However, the vow focuses on avoiding sankalp ( संकल्प - intention) and prarambh (प्रारम्भ - undertaking) of violence.
   • Kumarpal Raja's Story (Illustrating Ahimsa): A significant portion of this section is dedicated to the life of King Kumarpal.
     • His adherence to Ahimsa, influenced by Acharya Hemchandrasuri.
     • His royal decree for non-violence throughout his kingdom.
     • His meticulous arrangements to prevent harm to even small creatures (e.g., filtering water for horses).
     • His act of cutting off the skin bitten by an insect from his own leg to avoid harming the insect.
     • His vow to not go outside the city during the monsoon season to prevent harm to emerging life.
     • The book quotes scriptures and verses emphasizing the supreme importance of Ahimsa.
   • Daya (Compassion): The text emphasizes that Ahimsa without compassion is incomplete. Stories of King Meghkumar, Metarya Muni, King Meghrath, and Lord Munisuvrat Swami are cited to illustrate the immense benefits of compassion and saving lives.
   • Five Extravagances of Ahimsa (First Vow): The text lists and explains the five (aticharas) of the first vow, which should be avoided by followers:
     1. Binding animals cruelly due to anger.
     2. Cutting off limbs (ears, tail) due to anger.
     3. Overloading animals beyond their capacity.
     4. Beating or striking them excessively.
     5. Depriving them of food and water.
   • Jindas Seth's Story: This story highlights the importance of adhering to vows, even in difficult circumstances, and the transformative power of compassion. It also touches upon the concept of inner purity and the consequences of inner inclination (bhava) versus outer action.

3. Hinsa-Ahimsa Fruit (Consequences of Violence-Non-violence) (Part 53-54):

   • The text reiterates that violence leads to suffering and unrest, while non-violence leads to ultimate peace and happiness.
   • Sur and Chandra Kumar's Story: This story illustrates the consequences of internal conflict and the pursuit of pleasure versus righteous principles.
   • Dheevar's Story (Fisherman's Story): This narrative emphasizes that even a single act of compassion, like saving a fish, can have profound spiritual consequences, leading to liberation from the cycle of birth and death. It highlights how adhering to principles, even if seemingly insignificant, can lead to great merit.

4. Renouncing Violence (Hinsa na Tyage Virati) (Part 54-55):

   • The text distinguishes between violence stemming from intent (sankalp) and that arising from actions (aarambh).
   • It elaborates on the four types of violence based on substance (dravya) and essence (bhava).
   • The definition of Himsa from the Tattvartha Sutra by Acharya Umashwati is provided: "Premise of life due to passion (pramatta yoga)." The ten vitalities (pranas) are also mentioned.

5. The Importance of Intention and Avoiding Unnecessary Violence (Part 55):

   • The text stresses that even householders who vow to avoid violence towards gross beings must strive for greater non-violence in their actions and thoughts.
   • It highlights the concept of Yatna (यतना - carefulness/diligence) in handling even non-forbidden (but still living) substances like water, firewood, and grains.

6. Hindrance from Violence (Part 55-56):

   • The text explains the subtle nature of violence and how even unintentional harm can lead to karmic bondage if there is negligence (pramatta). Conversely, diligent adherence to vows, even if accidental harm occurs, minimizes karmic consequences.

7. The Story of Hari Bal the Fisherman (Part 34-36):

   • This story demonstrates the profound impact of adherence to even a small vow. Hari Bal, a fisherman, vows to release the fish caught in his net. This act of piety, born from genuine compassion, leads to miraculous interventions and ultimately to his spiritual upliftment and liberation. It also shows how external factors (like a deity's intervention) can be a consequence of one's virtuous actions.

8. Consequences of Cruelty (Part 39):

   • The text connects cruelty and violence to suffering in the cycle of rebirth, citing the story of Mrigaputra (मृगापुत्र), whose horrific existence was a result of his past actions.

9. The Impact of Violence:

   • The text emphasizes that violence in thought, word, or deed leads to immense suffering.

10. The Story of Mrigaputra (Part 39-41):

    • This narrative vividly illustrates the dire consequences of past violent actions, depicting Mrigaputra's birth with a deformed body and a life of immense suffering. It serves as a stark warning against causing harm to any living being. The story emphasizes that all suffering is a result of past karma and that the path to liberation lies in understanding and abandoning these harmful actions.

11. The Importance of Non-violent Living (Part 41):

    • The text asserts that a non-violent life is the true life. Even the thought of violence towards others is considered an offense against oneself, as it leads to future suffering. The story of Dasiputra (दासीपुत्र) is presented to illustrate the consequences of harmful thoughts and actions.

12. The Story of Dasiputra (Part 41-43):

    • This story highlights the karmic repercussions of harmful intent and actions, even when seemingly unrelated to the immediate consequences. It illustrates how past grievances and negative intentions can manifest in future lives, underscoring the importance of maintaining equanimity and non-violence in thought, word, and deed.

13. The Story of Kausik the Ascetic and his Disciple (Part 29-30):

    • This narrative emphasizes the importance of correct understanding in spiritual practice. Kausik, through his disciple's misguided teachings, unknowingly caused harm. This story highlights the subtle but significant consequences of actions and the importance of genuine spiritual knowledge.

14. King Kumarpal's Story (Part 30-34):

    • This extensive narrative details King Kumarpal's unwavering commitment to Ahimsa and Jain principles, influenced by Acharya Hemchandrasuri. His actions, from implementing non-violence policies to personal sacrifices for the cause, serve as a powerful example of the practical application of Jain ethics. The story also touches upon the debates and philosophical discussions surrounding Jainism and its relationship with other religious traditions.

15. Hinsa-Ahimsa Explained (Part 54):

    • The text reiterates the consequence of violence as suffering and the consequence of non-violence as supreme peace.

Overall Message:

The second part of "Updesh Prasad" serves as a detailed guide for householders aspiring to live a life of righteousness and adherence to Jain principles. It emphasizes the paramount importance of Ahimsa, not just in action but also in thought and word. Through compelling stories and scriptural references, the text aims to inspire readers to cultivate compassion, practice self-restraint, and understand the profound karmic consequences of their actions. The narrative style makes complex philosophical concepts accessible, encouraging a deeper commitment to the Jain way of life. The inclusion of the life of King Kumarpal provides a historical and practical context for these teachings, showing how great rulers embraced and propagated these virtues.