________________
In different Sutras samanujna and asamanujna have been interpreted differently. The commentator (Vritti) has explained this by making four combinations
(1) Those who have slight philosophical differences, slight difference in attire, and differences in some parts of ascetic routine.
(2) Those who have no philosophical differences, no difference in attire, but differences in ascetic routine.
(3) Those who have no philosophical differences, no difference in attire, and no differences in ascetic routine but no affiliation in common indulgences like eating etc.
(4) Those who have no philosophical differences, no difference in attire, and no differences in ascetic routine and also have affiliation in common indulgences like eating etc.
Of these four combinations those conforming to the fourth are absolutely samanujna (conformists). Affiliation in common indulgences like eating etc. is kept with those having almost same conduct and not with those having different conduct. The commentator (Vritti) has transliterated samanunna as samanujna in Sanskrit and interpreted it as-one who is same in terms of philosophy and attire but not in terms of affiliation in common indulgences, is called samanujna. This is only in context with co-religionist ascetic and not a householder. A Shraman can only give to or take from a co-religionist ascetic having same attitude, things like food, attire, and ascetic-equipment. However, in spite of following the same conduct such exchange cannot be effected genially with ascetics who, although in proximity, are lax, illmannered, pervert, degraded and having other vices. In order to convey it explicitly the adjectives sambhogik (related to indulgences) and samanujna (conformist) have been added.
In scriptures the term anya-tirthak (belonging to other religious group or school of philosophy) has also been used for nonconformists. In case such conformist or non-conformist ascetic is विमोक्ष : अष्टम अध्ययन
( ३७३ )
Vimoksha: Eight Chapter
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
