अमितगति श्रावकाचार में श्रावक की जीवनचर्या
By डॉ. રપેશચર जेन, ग्राचायं अमितगति
Summary
The text is an analysis of the *Shravakachar* (or *Upasakachar*) composed by Acharya Amitagati, a significant work in Jain literature that details the lifestyle and conduct of a lay follower (shravak). It begins with a veneration of the Panch Parmeshthi and a prayer to Saraswati for wisdom. The text emphasizes the rarity and value of human birth, stating it is essential for achieving dharma, which is compared to essential elements like salt in food or the moon in the night. True dharma is defined by non-violence, abstinence from alcohol, and fidelity; actions like killing or drinking cannot be considered righteous. The first step for a virtuous person is to abandon false belief (mithyatva), which is described as having seven types and being fundamentally opposed to dharma. A person with right belief (samyaktva) must accept the fundamental principles of Jainism. The core of the text outlines the twelve vows for a shravak: five anuvratas (minor vows) of non-violence, truth, non-stealing, celibacy, and limiting possessions; three gunavratas (merit vows) of limiting movement, place, and purposeless activities; and four shikshavratas (disciplinary vows) of meditation, fasting, offering, and hospitality. The anuvrata of non-violence is detailed, noting that householders cannot avoid all violence but must avoid intentional harm. The text also describes the eleven pratimas (stages of householder conduct), the six avashyakas (essential duties including samayik, stavan, vandana, pratikraman, pratyakhyan, and kayotsarg), and the four types of dharma for a shravak: charity (including food, medicine, and knowledge), worship (both physical and mental), moral conduct (shila), and fasting. It concludes that a shravak who diligently follows this path purifies their life and becomes eligible for monkhood and liberation.
Conclusion
This document underscores the profound implications of the *Śrāvakācāra* for a lay Jain follower's life, presenting a comprehensive ethical and spiritual framework. The text systematically outlines that a successful life hinges on the sequential adoption of right faith, the renunciation of intoxicants and harmful foods, and the meticulous observance of twelve vows, including non-violence and truthfulness. The ultimate outcome is a structured path from householder duties to the possibility of monastic life and liberation. By detailing practices like the eleven *pratimās* and six daily duties, the document provides a clear, actionable guide for spiritual purification. It concludes that the faithful *śrāvaka*, through diligent practice, purifies their conduct and becomes a worthy candidate for *mokṣa*, demonstrating that the householder's path is a valid and powerful means to the highest spiritual end.