Uttaradhyayan Sutram Part 03

This document is the third part (Part 03) of the Uttaradhyayan Sutram, authored by Sudharmaswami and commented on by Lakshmivallabh Gani. It was published by Shravak Hiralal Hansraj. The catalog link is provided as jainqq.org/explore/020856/1.

The text is intended for private and personal use only.

Summary of the Content (Part 03):

This section of the Uttaradhyayan Sutram, specifically Chapter 10 (Dasham Adhyayan), begins by explaining its connection to the previous chapter. Chapter 9 discussed remaining steadfast in conduct, and Chapter 10 focuses on the importance of "Shiksha" (education/instruction) for achieving that steadfastness. This chapter is presented as a discourse by Lord Mahavir to Gautam.

The narrative then introduces the story of King Shal of Pushtipanchala city. King Shal, his brother Mahashal, and his sister Yashomati are key figures. After hearing Lord Mahavir's discourse on the rarity of human birth for spiritual practice, the prevalence of obstacles to dharma (like wrong faith), the consequences of worldly pursuits (leading to hell), and the role of passions in the cycle of rebirth and liberation through their renunciation, King Shal decides to take vows. He requests Lord Mahavir to stay until his younger brother, Mahashal, is established on the throne. Mahashal, however, also expresses a desire for renunciation, finding no purpose in worldly pursuits.

The story continues with King Shal anointing his nephew Gangali as the new king. Both Shal and Mahashal renounce the world and become ascetics. Witnessing their renunciation, their sister Yashomati also becomes a lay follower (Shravak-upasika). Lord Mahavir then moves on. Shal and Mahashal, having studied the eleven Angas, attain profound knowledge. Later, they request Lord Mahavir for permission to return to Pushtipanchala, believing it would be a great merit if they could guide someone there to attain Right Faith. Lord Mahavir grants permission, sending Gautam Swami with them.

In Pushtipanchala, King Gangali, along with his parents Pithar and Yashomati, comes to greet Gautam Swami and the assembly. Gautam Swami delivers a discourse urging the audience to avoid attachment to worldly pleasures, not to create obstacles in the path of liberation, to appreciate the rarity of human birth, and to strive diligently in Jain Dharma for eternal salvation.

The narrative then highlights the spiritual progress of various individuals, including the ascetics Kodinna, Dinna, and Sevala, who had attained different stages of spiritual progress on Mount Ashtapad. It describes Gautam Swami's visit to Ashtapad, where he encounters these ascetics and receives guidance from Lord Mahavir. Gautam Swami's own aspiration for higher spiritual attainment and his admiration for the ascetics who have already achieved higher states are evident.

The text also includes dialogues with Vaishravana, a celestial being, where Gautam Swami explains the nature of true penance and the importance of "Shubha Dhyana" (auspicious meditation).

A significant portion of the text delves into the story of Pundarika and Kandarika, the sons of King Mahapadma of Pushkalavati. Kandarika, despite his brother Pundarika's attempts to dissuade him, chooses the path of renunciation. The story illustrates the challenges of ascetic life and the contrast in the outcomes for those who fall prey to worldly temptations versus those who persevere with strong spiritual resolve. Kandarika's eventual downfall into the seventh hell due to his attachment to pleasures is contrasted with Pundarika's continued spiritual practice, leading to divine rebirth.

The latter part of the text shifts focus to the teachings of Gautam Swami to Gautam himself, emphasizing the impermanence of life and the need for constant vigilance against "pramada" (carelessness/negligence). This is illustrated through vivid metaphors, such as a fallen leaf from a tree, a dewdrop on a blade of grass, and the fleeting nature of human life. The teachings extend to the importance of adhering to the principles of "Pancha Samiti" (fivefold vigilance) and "Trividh Gupti" (threefold control), the significance of righteous conduct, and the avoidance of negative qualities like anger, pride, greed, and deceit.

The text emphasizes that true happiness lies in detachment from worldly pleasures and devotion to the path of liberation as taught by the Jinas. It also touches upon the difficulties in attaining human birth and the obstacles that prevent spiritual progress, highlighting the importance of right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.

The chapter concludes with a strong emphasis on the impermanence of life, the deceptive nature of worldly pleasures, and the ultimate refuge found in the Jain Dharma. It advises against procrastination and encourages a life of continuous spiritual effort. The teachings of Gautam Swami, as conveyed by Lord Mahavir, serve as a guide for the seekers of liberation.

The final section (starting from page 22) elaborates on the concept of "Bahushruta" (one who has heard much, i.e., possessing extensive scriptural knowledge) and the virtues associated with such individuals, emphasizing that knowledge without righteous conduct and contemplation is futile. It highlights the characteristics of a virtuous and learned person who is humble, disciplined, and dedicated to the path of dharma. The text uses various analogies from nature and human behavior to illustrate these points.

Overall, this part of the Uttaradhyayan Sutram focuses on:

• The importance of instruction and learning in spiritual practice.
• The consequences of attachment to worldly pleasures and the renunciation of the world.
• The teachings on impermanence, vigilance against carelessness, and the pursuit of dharma.
• The importance of virtues like humility, self-control, and renunciation.
• The contrast between the spiritual path and the pitfalls of worldly attachments.
• The exemplary lives and teachings of spiritual leaders like Lord Mahavir, Gautam Swami, and various ascetics.
• The ultimate goal of liberation from the cycle of birth and death.