Uttaradhyayana Sutra Pravachano

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Uttaradhyayana Sutra Pravachano" by Chandraguptasuri, based on the provided text:

Title: Uttaradhyayana Sutra Pravachano (Discourses on the Uttaradhyayana Sutra) Author: Acharya Shrimad Vijay Chandraguptsuri (discourses given by) Publisher: Shri Anekant Prakashan Jain Religious Trust

This book is a collection of discourses on the Uttaradhyayana Sutra, a foundational Jain scripture. The discourses were delivered by the esteemed Acharya Shrimad Vijay Chandraguptsuri during his Chaturmas (a four-month period of religious observance) in Mumbai. The publication aims to bring the essence of these profound teachings to a wider audience.

The summary can be broadly divided into the key themes and concepts discussed in the discourses:

1. The Significance of the Uttaradhyayana Sutra:

• The text emphasizes that the Uttaradhyayana Sutra is a fundamental scripture, composed by Ganadhar Shrimad Sudharmaswamiji.
• Its name, "Uttaradhyayana" (meaning "later study"), comes from the tradition of studying it after the Achārāṅga Sutra or, in the present era, after the Dashavaikālika Sutra.
• The Sutra is believed to have the power to remove worldly desires and afflictions (kashays) from the soul, bringing peace and tranquility. Its every syllable is said to possess immense power.
• The text highlights that understanding the true meaning of this Sutra is only possible through dedicated study and contemplation.

2. The Core Concepts and Teachings:

• Vinaya (Humility and Respect): The first chapter discussed is Vinaya Adhyayana (Chapter on Humility).

  • Vinaya is presented as the root of Jainism. It's emphasized that pride and arrogance hinder progress, while humility leads to advancement.
  • The discourses deeply explore the nature of a true Sadhu (monk) and Sadhvi (nun). A Sadhu is defined as someone detached from worldly possessions and relationships, both material (dravya-sanyog) and emotional (bhava-sanyog – attachment to senses and kashays).
  • The speakers critique modern-day practices that deviate from the scriptural ideals, such as monks becoming overly involved with the worldly affairs or possessions of their followers.
  • The importance of detachment is stressed: monks should not inquire about their past worldly names or feel attached to worldly relationships.
  • The text clarifies that the duty of monks is to convey the teachings of the Tirthankaras and to guide souls towards salvation, not to manage the worldly affairs of their devotees.
  • The responsibility of householders (shravaks and shravikas) is to support the monks and nuns, ensuring their basic needs are met without burdening them, and to actively engage in spiritual practices.

• The Nature of Sadhu and Shravak:

  • A Sadhu is one who has renounced all external and internal attachments. They are detached from worldly possessions, including their own families and even their past names.
  • A true Sadhu is a messenger of the Lord's teachings, focusing solely on their spiritual practice rather than accumulating followers or managing their worldly lives.
  • A Shravak (lay follower) is defined as someone who consistently listens to and contemplates the conduct of monks and nuns.
  • A Shravak should strive for detachment and understand that true happiness lies in renouncing worldly desires, not in accumulating them.

• Adherence to Dharma and Vidi (Principles and Practices):

  • The importance of following the Vidhi (proper procedures and timing) in religious practices is repeatedly emphasized, for both monks and lay followers. Actions performed at the wrong time are considered futile, like farming at the wrong season.
  • The text criticizes the laxity in observing the correct timing and procedures for rituals like Pratikraman (repentance) and Padilehan (cleaning the space), even among monks.
  • The concept of Appavaada (exceptions) is discussed, noting that it is only granted to those who first practice the Utsarga (general rule).

• The Importance of Vinaya (Respect and Etiquette):

  • The text highlights the critical role of Vinaya in spiritual progress, emphasizing respect for one's Guru and the teachings.
  • The discourses stress the difference between Vinaya (humility) and Vinīt (the person who embodies humility).
  • A key teaching is that a disciple should be Agnyānudēśkar (one who follows the Guru's instructions) and Upavāyakār (one who remains close to the Guru).
  • The necessity of understanding the Guru's intentions and acting accordingly, rather than asserting one's own will, is paramount.
  • The concept of Ānāniṅgita (following subtle indications) and Ānāniñdeśakara (one who carries out instructions) is crucial for disciples.
  • The text explains that true Vinaya is not just in obedience but in respecting the Guru's word and intentions.

• The Nature of Avinaya (Disrespect and Undisciplined Behavior):

  • The discourses strongly caution against Avinaya, characterized by disrespect towards the Guru, self-centeredness, and ego.
  • Examples of Avinaya include being argumentative, neglecting duties, and harboring negative thoughts about the Guru or fellow practitioners.
  • The consequences of Avinaya are severe, leading to spiritual downfall and further entanglement in the cycle of birth and death.
  • The text uses the analogy of a dog (kutti) and a pig (shukara) to illustrate how ill-behaved individuals are ostracized and rejected, just as impure things are discarded.
  • The story of Kulvalak Muni is recounted to illustrate how even strong penance cannot compensate for a lack of humility and respect towards the Guru.

• The Practice of Tapasya (Austerities) and its True Purpose:

  • The text emphasizes that Tapasya (austerities) should be performed with the right intention – for Nirjara (shedding karma) and Moksha (liberation), not for accumulating Punya (merit) to enjoy worldly pleasures or gain recognition.
  • The discourses critique the misconception that Tapasya is solely for physical well-being or achieving worldly comforts.
  • The true purpose of Tapasya is Ātma Daman (self-control) and detachment from desires.

• The Importance of Equanimity and Detachment:

  • The text underscores the need for Samata (equanimity) in all circumstances – accepting both pleasant and unpleasant experiences with calmness.
  • True happiness is found in detachment from worldly possessions and desires. The more one renounces desires, the closer they get to true happiness.

• The Fourfold Dharma (Charitrya):

  • The discourses highlight the importance of Jñāna (knowledge), Darśana (perception), Chāritrya (conduct), and Tapas (austerities) as the four pillars of Dharma, all leading towards Moksha.
  • The text emphasizes that true understanding comes from the Guru, and knowledge obtained through self-study without proper guidance can be misleading.

• The Role of the Guru and the Importance of Following Guidance:

  • The Guru's guidance is considered essential for spiritual progress. Disciples must listen attentively, follow instructions with humility, and strive to understand the Guru's intentions.
  • The text criticizes the trend of questioning the Guru's actions or wisdom, emphasizing that a disciple's primary role is to absorb the teachings and surrender their ego.

• The Dangers of Raga (Attachment) and Dwesha (Aversion):

  • The discourses repeatedly warn against Raga (attachment) and Dwesha (aversion), which are seen as the roots of all suffering and hindrances to spiritual progress.
  • The ultimate goal is to transcend these emotions and achieve a state of Vairagya (detachment).

• The Concept of Trushna (Craving):

  • Trushna (craving or desire) is identified as the root cause of all worldly suffering and the mother of all sins. Its eradication is crucial for liberation.
  • The text urges followers to detach from worldly desires, understanding that true contentment comes from renouncing, not accumulating.

3. Specific Examples and Narratives: The discourses are enriched with numerous illustrative stories and examples, often drawn from Jain scriptures and legends, to convey the principles effectively. These include:

• The story of Shripal's daughter-in-law, who showed great devotion.
• The examples of various saints and ascetics who exemplified these virtues.
• The narratives of kings and queens who achieved spiritual liberation.
• The parable of the elephant, the camel, and the monkey to illustrate different states of mind and attachments.
• The story of King Bharata and Bahubali, and the war between them.
• The example of the Kulvalak Muni.
• The story of King Kounic and his brothers, and the devastating war.
• The story of Shali Bhadra.
• The tale of King Nami and his detachment.
• The example of the pious shravak Dhanpal.
• The narrative of King Shrenik and his son Abhayakumara.
• The story of the thief who became a disciple.

Overall Message:

The "Uttaradhyayana Sutra Pravachano" serves as a profound guide for spiritual seekers, offering practical advice and deep philosophical insights into the Jain path. The discourses encourage a life of humility, detachment, equanimity, and unwavering devotion to the Guru and the Dharma. They emphasize the arduous yet ultimately rewarding journey towards Moksha, highlighting the importance of self-discipline, the renunciation of desires, and the relentless pursuit of spiritual knowledge. The text aims to instill a deeper understanding of Jain principles and inspire followers to live a life of righteousness and detachment.