Words are finite, feelings infinite — such is the law of the universe. A small visual can evoke boundless joy. This is the essence of a drop containing an ocean.
This episode takes us deep into the life of a Shraman — a Jain monk — revealing the inner fabric of monastic life: its rigorous discipline (anushasan), structured daily routine (dincharya), and the immense sense of responsibility that comes with renunciation.
The First Six Days After Initiation (Diksha)
Once a seeker accepts monkhood (diksha), they begin with six essential practices (Avashyaka) over six days:
- Day 1: Samayik Avashyak – Equal vision and equanimity. The first lesson taught through ritual recitation.
- Day 2: Chaturvimshati-Stava & Utkirtan – Praise of the 24 Tirthankaras and expression of devotion.
- Day 3: Vinay Pratipatti Vandana – Humble reverence and surrender.
- Day 4: Pratikraman – Daily reflection. Different from the layperson’s; it involves deep repentance and review of conduct.
- Day 5: Kayotsarg – Complete stillness and detachment from the body, akin to spiritual therapy.
- Day 6: Gun-dharna & Pratyakhyan – Cultivation of virtues and strong internal resolves.
The Seventh Day: The Grand Diksha (Chhedopasthapan Diksha)
On the seventh day, the initiate formally undertakes the Five Great Vows (Mahavratas) — non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possession. But it is not just a vow in words; each has an exhaustive definition.
- For instance, non-stealing includes not taking even a toothpick knowingly or unknowingly, from city, village, or forest.
- Non-violence is to be observed in substance (dravya), space (kshetra), time (kaal), and intention (bhav).
Each vow is defined, explained, and deeply internalized under the guru’s guidance.
What Happens After Diksha?
Contrary to the notion of freedom post-renunciation, diksha brings an immense increase in responsibility. You’re no longer responsible for just your family, but for the entire Jain tradition and spiritual world. The path is not of relaxation, but of intensified discipline.
The monk must now live under the strict instructions of the Guru, aligning every action with permission and awareness — whether it’s observing austerity, drinking water, reading scripture, or performing service.
They must never act on impulse — not even to fast or serve — without seeking the Guru’s guidance. The Guru allocates duties, whether it be preaching, penance, or service. Self-discipline is now the path, not freedom of choice.
The Ten Types of Disciplinary Conduct (Samachari) in Monkhood
- Avashyak Samachari: Informing the Guru before leaving for any activity (avassahi) and reporting back (nissahi).
- Chhanda Samachari: Seeking permission for even personal needs like food or water and prioritizing others.
- Icchakar Samachari: Expressing spiritual aspirations or intentions openly with the Guru.
- Micchhakar Samachari: Confessing mistakes and seeking purification (prayshchit), not as punishment but liberation.
- Tathakar Samachari: Wholeheartedly accepting the Guru’s words and commands with inner conviction.
- Abhuthanam Samachari: Respectfully standing when the Guru approaches, never remaining seated or idle.
- Upasampada Samachari: Following other Gurus’ instructions with equal devotion if sent to them.
- Tathakar: Accepting the Guru’s words as truth, without doubt or resistance.
- Abhuthanam: Standing and bowing in respect on seeing the Guru.
- Upasampada: Accepting the Guru’s wish if they guide the disciple to learn from another Acharya.
Each of these ensures that the monk’s conduct is in line with the spiritual order, maintaining the sanctity of monkhood.
The Role of the Guru
The Guru is not omniscient, so a disciple must express their inner state and ask for guidance. Silence leads to isolation, not growth. The Guru will grant permission based on merit or guide the disciple on how to become deserving.
Looking Ahead
This episode has explained the discipline (anushasan) a monk embraces after diksha — both voluntary and sacred. The daily routine (dincharya) of a monk, structured according to the movement of the sun — at 45°, 90°, 135°, and sunset — will be detailed in the next episode. It’s a deeply scientific and spiritual time-table, worthy of reverence and exploration.
Conclusion:
Monkhood is not an escape — it is an ascent. The life of a Jain monk is rooted in profound inner discipline, precise conduct, and complete surrender to spiritual authority. Every action, thought, and word is governed by mindfulness and humility. With these ten disciplines, the soul begins its journey from worldly attachments to absolute liberation.