________________
LOGASARO : PANCHAMAM AJJHAYANAM
LOKASARA : FIFTH CHAPTER THE ESSENCE OF THE WORLD
INTRODUCTION The name of the fifth chapter of Acharanga Sutra is Lokasara. In context of nomenclature, structure, and other such parameters there are various different meanings of the word Loka. Here it refers to the specific area measuring fourteen Rajju (a linear unit defined as the distance covered by a god flying non-stop for six months at a speed of 20,57,152 yojans per second) and the beings living there. The word 'sara' also has many meanings-result, essence, fundamental, entire or whole, solid, pre-eminence, meaningful, etc. The commentator (Niryukti) has raised a question about the essence of the loka—"Sir, what is the essence of this world and what again is the ultimate essence of that essence?" In answer the acharya says—"The essence of the world is dharma; the essence of dharma is knowledge; the essence of knowledge is discipline; and the essence of discipline is nirvana or liberation." According to the said elaboration the meaning of the title of the chapter Lokasara is—contemplation and elaboration of liberation and other core-fundamentals of the world of beings. A seeker may be inspired towards the essence of this world (ultimate soul, soul and liberation). He may properly understand the true form of the contradictory factors like inflow of karmas, bondage of karmas, indiscipline and false perception. Fully understanding the consequences of these contradictory factors he may avoid them. This is the theme of this chapter.
*
आचारांग सूत्र
( 280)
Illustrated Acharanga Sutra
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
