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The **Chhedaprayaschitta** is the final **prayaschitta** (atonement) given to a **veshamukta shraman** (Jain monk who has renounced all worldly possessions). It encompasses the six previous **prayaschittas**. The **moolah**, **anavasthapyai**, and **parinchikai** **prayaschittas** are considered minor, while the **prayaschittas** from **alocanaah** to **chedah** are considered major. Due to their extensive nature, the **Dasha-shruta-skandha** (**Acharadasa**), **Brihatkalpa**, **Vyavahar**, and **Nishith** **Agamas** are referred to as **Chhedasutras**.
The general subject matter of the **Chhedasutras** can be understood from the above statement. They address how to avoid and rectify any faults committed by a **sadhak** (spiritual aspirant) during their **sadhanamay** (spiritual) life. From this perspective, the topics of the **Chhedasutras** can be divided into four parts:
1. **Utsargamarga** (Path of Renunciation)
2. **Apavadamarga** (Path of Exception)
3. **Doshasevan** (Commission of Faults)
4. **Prayaschittavidhan** (Atonement Regulations)
1. **Utsargamarga**: This path refers to the rules that are mandatory for **sadhu-sadhvi** (Jain monks and nuns). It involves adhering to the **samachari** (conduct) without any deviation or alteration. This path emphasizes the practice of **nirdosha charitra** (blameless conduct). Following this path fosters **aprammatta** (mindfulness) in the **sadhak** and makes them worthy of praise and respect.
2. **Apavadamarga**: This path refers to special rules or exceptions. It is of two types: (1) **Nirdosha visheshvidhi** (blameless special rule) and (2) **Sadosha visheshvidhi** (faulty special rule). Special rules are stronger than general rules. **Apavadic** rules are based on reasons. The **praagars** (precepts) that are kept in **uttaragunapratyakhyan** (rejection of higher qualities) are all **nirdosha apavad** (blameless exceptions). An action or tendency that does not violate **prajna** (wisdom) is considered **nirdosha**. However, due to strong reasons, even if the mind is unwilling, one may be compelled to commit a fault. This is considered **sadosha apavad** (faulty exception). **Prayaschitta** (atonement) purifies such faults. This path protects the **sadhak** from **praart-raudr dhyan** (meditation that is harsh and violent). While not praiseworthy, this path is not so reprehensible as to cause public criticism. **Anachar** (immoral conduct) cannot be considered a part of the **apavadvidhi** (exceptional rule) in any form. Engaging in **swaichar** (self-indulgence) out of free will and desire, violating boundaries, prioritizing one's own interests, ego, and pride, disregarding the **sangha** (community), exhibiting arrogance, and breaking discipline are all considered **anachar**. This is unthinkable, but **anachari** (immoral person) resorts to tricks and tactics to make it thinkable. Such a person, a **sadhak**, cannot be purified by any method and is not worthy of purification.
3. & 4. **Doshasevan** and **Prayaschittavidhan**: **Doshasevan** refers to the violation of the **Utsargamarga** and **Apavadamarga**. **Prayaschitta** is the method used to purify such violations. When a fault is committed unintentionally due to strong reasons, forgetfulness, or negligence, **prayaschitta** is necessary for purification. This is the general outline of the **Chhedasutras**. The **prayaschitta** is mandatory for the purification of faults. This is evident from the above statement. In this context, some specific points are highlighted. [10]