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सचित्र उत्तराध्ययन सूत्र
SHADVIMSH ADHYAYAN :
SAMAACHAARI
Foreview
The name of this chapter is Samaachaari (ascetic-praxis) or The Right System of Ascetic Behaviour. This system includes complete conduct, duties and behaviour of an ascetic. This chapter describes the codes, rules, sub-rules and other procedures related to asceticpraxis.
In order to keep the religious organization well managed proper interactive behaviour is essential. There should neither be excessive fondness nor apathy, harshness, neglect, or irresponsibility in dealings with others. Indifference for one and attachment for another may cause disintegration in the organization. Impertinence, purposeless moving around and haughtiness may also disrupt the management of the sangh (religious organization).
Keeping these causes in mind the ascetic-conduct is said to have two componentsconduct related to vows and that related to social behaviour.
Ascetic-praxis too has two limbs-1. Ogha Samaachaari (general code of ascetic-praxis), and 2. Padavibhaag Samaachaari (protocol related codes of ascetic-praxis).
This chapter details both types of Samaachaaris.
There are ten divisions of Samaachaari-1. Avashyaki, 2. Naishedhiki, 3. Aaprichchhana, 4. Pratiprichchhana, 5. Chhandana, 6. Ichchhaakaara, 7. Mithyaakaara, 8. Tathaakaara, 9. Abhyutthaana, and 10. Upsampada (aasevana-shiksha).
Complete and detailed description of all these has been included in this chapter.
After that the autsargika charya (procedure of dissociation) related to day and night is described.
There are eight prahars (period of three hours) in a day and night-four prahars (quarters) of day and four of night.
The first quarter of the day is assigned to studies, the second to meditation, the third to alms-seeking and the fourth again to studies.
In the same way the first quarter of the day is assigned to studies, the second to meditation, the third to sleeping and the fourth again to studies.
Thus out of the eight quarters of day and night four quarters are reserved for studies, two for meditation, one for alms-seeking and other bodily needs and one for sleep.
The special characteristic of Samaachaari is that it is not like forced social and family compulsions but is accepted voluntarily. It is the culmination of the inner desire that flows naturally and becomes helpful in the spiritual progress of an aspirant. It also enhances behavioural adroitness. It manifests in perfection, simplicity and spontaneity to the aspirants ascetic life.
The chapter has 53 verses.
