Note on Ayaramga-Sutta
By Michihiko Yajima
Summary
This philological note examines a verse from the Āyāraṃga‑sutta (Ācārāṅga‑sūtra), one of the earliest Jain canonical texts, and compares it with parallel passages in the Pāli canon. The verse in question contains the verb sahai/sak, which has been variously translated as ‘to tolerate,’ ‘to suffer’ or ‘not to allow.’ By analysing variant readings and earlier translations by scholars like Jacobi and Schubring, the author shows that the verb’s sense in this context is closer to ‘not to tolerate’ rather than the more passive ‘to endure.’ The paper details how the medieval editor W. Schubring recorded alternative readings and how later translators rendered the line differently. It further notes how the same verb appears in Pāli canonical texts with the meaning ‘to conquer’ or ‘to overcome’, often in ethical contexts where overcoming lust or discontent is extolled. The author argues that understanding the verb as connoting active resistance rather than passive acceptance better aligns with Jain ethical teachings, which emphasise the conquest of passions through self‑control. By tracing the usage of sahai in various Prakrit and Pāli sources, the note illustrates the challenges of translating early canonical literature and the importance of context and comparative philology. Such close reading sheds light on subtle doctrinal nuances and helps refine modern translations of Jain scriptures.
Conclusion
The note highlights the value of meticulous textual criticism in clarifying doctrinal passages. Recognising the active sense of the verb ‘to overcome’ rather than ‘to endure’ underscores Jainism’s emphasis on conquering passions. Comparative philological studies like this improve our understanding of early Jain and Buddhist texts and remind us that small linguistic choices can have significant doctrinal implications.