Vyavaharsutram Bruhatkalpasutram

Based on the provided text, here's a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Vyavaharsutram Bruhatkalpasutram" by Ghasilal Maharaj:

This text is a commentary (Bhashya and Churni) on two significant Jain Agamas: the Vyavahar Sutra and the Brihatkalpa Sutra. The author, Ghasilal Maharaj, has enriched it with the commentary of Acharya Kanhaiyalalji. The publication is supported by Shree Shantilal Mangaldas Shah, representing the Akhil Bharatiya Shwetambar Sthanakwasi Jain Shastroddhar Samiti.

The text is structured into ten chapters (Deshakas), each detailing various aspects of monastic conduct and discipline for Jain monks (Bhikkhu, Nirgranth) and nuns (Bhikkhuni, Nirgranthi) according to the Shwetambar Sthanakwasi tradition. The primary focus is on the rules and regulations (Vyavahar) governing the monastic life, emphasizing penance (Prayashchitta) and correct conduct (Achara).

Here's a chapter-wise breakdown of the key themes and content based on the provided index and partial text:

Book Title: Vyavaharsutram Bruhatkalpasutram Author: Ghasilal Maharaj (with commentary by Acharya Kanhaiyalalji) Publisher: A B Shwetambar Sthanakwasi Jain Shastroddhar Samiti

Overall Scope: The text meticulously outlines the detailed rules for monks and nuns, covering a wide range of situations and transgressions, along with the prescribed penances. It delves into:

• Penances for violations: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to specifying penances for various infractions, particularly related to staying in forbidden places or regions (Parihar Sthan) for different durations (monthly, bi-monthly, tri-monthly, etc.). It also details the difference in penance based on whether the transgression was confessed with sincerity or with deceit.
• Monastic Conduct: The sutras cover conduct related to:
  • Living arrangements: Rules for monks and nuns living together, staying in specific locations, and the conditions under which they can reside there.
  • Interaction with others: Guidelines for interacting with other monks, nuns, teachers (Acharyas), and superiors (Sthaviras).
  • Dietary rules: Specific instructions regarding food and drink, including what can and cannot be accepted or consumed.
  • Property and belongings: Rules about managing monastic property, including the use of utensils and personal items.
  • Teaching and learning: Guidelines for Acharyas and Upadhyayas regarding teaching scriptures and the qualifications required.
  • Behavioral regulations: Details on acceptable and unacceptable behavior in various situations, including dealing with illnesses, transgressions, and the process of confession and penance.
• Specific Transgressions and Penances: The text elaborates on numerous violations, such as:
  • Unacceptable dwelling places: Rules about where monks and nuns can and cannot reside, especially concerning places associated with non-Jains (Parapashanda pratima), or places with specific conditions.
  • Improper conduct: Transgressions like improper association, inappropriate behavior with the opposite sex (including detailed rules for monks and nuns related to sexual misconduct and its atonement), theft, and lying.
  • Specific rules for different monastic roles: Instructions are provided for monks, nuns, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and Gana-vachhedakas (leaders of monastic sub-groups).
• Special Cases and Exceptions: The text addresses specific scenarios, such as the conduct of monks and nuns when their teachers pass away, dealing with illness, and the hierarchy and respect to be shown to senior monks.
• Rules for specific times and seasons: Regulations are mentioned for behavior during different seasons like Hemanta (winter), Grishma (summer), and Varsha (monsoon).
• The Importance of Sincerity in Confession: The text stresses the significance of sincere confession and the different penances based on the sincerity of the confession.
• Types of Monastics: It distinguishes between different levels of monasticism, such as monks who have studied various scriptures (Bahushruta, Bahuagama) and their respective conduct.
• The role of Acharyas and Upadhyayas: A significant portion deals with the qualifications and responsibilities of Acharyas (teachers) and Upadhyayas (sub-teachers), including rules for appointing successors and the penances for their misconduct.
• Social and environmental considerations: It touches upon rules for monks and nuns interacting with laypeople and their property, as well as environmental considerations when residing in villages or forests.

Key Themes:

• Discipline and Austerity: The text is a testament to the rigorous discipline and ascetic practices prescribed in Jain monasticism.
• Purity of Conduct: Maintaining purity of body, speech, and mind is paramount, with detailed rules to prevent even the slightest deviation.
• Hierarchy and Respect: The text emphasizes the importance of respecting senior monks (Sthaviras), Acharyas, and Upadhyayas, and following their guidance.
• Penance and Purification: A central theme is the detailed framework of penances for various transgressions, aimed at purifying the soul.
• Sincerity and Honesty: The text highlights the importance of sincerity and honesty in confessing faults to the spiritual preceptors.

The provided text is a detailed index of the chapters (Deshakas) and their respective topics within the Vyavahar Sutra section of the book. It lists subjects like penances for staying in forbidden places, rules for different types of monks and nuns, regulations concerning interaction with laypeople, dietary restrictions, and the conduct of senior monks and teachers. The Brihatkalpa Sutra section's index also appears to cover monastic rules, particularly concerning habitation, seasonal conduct, and interactions.

In essence, the "Vyavaharsutram Brihatkalpasutram" serves as a comprehensive manual for Jain monks and nuns, guiding them through the intricacies of their spiritual path with precise rules, detailed guidelines, and prescribed penances for every conceivable situation.