Illustrated Namokara Mahamantra

Author(s): Shreechand Surana, Surendra Bothra
Publisher: Diwakar Prakashan

Page 12

अंगभूत
अपांगश्रुत
NAMO UVAJJHĀYĀNAŃ
4. The Conception of Upadhyāya :
The Sanskrta form of the Prakrta word uvajjhāya is upadhyāya. Up-means near. Adhyāya-means to study. Those from whom one can get the knowledge of the scriptures are upādhyāyas. They are like torches of knowledge.
Illustration : Upadhyāya is like a burning lamp that lights other lamps with the touch of its flame of knowledge. As donating eye to a blind is a magnanimous deed, giving knowledge to an ignorant is a great virtue. This pious work is done by upādhyāyas.
The eleven volumes of Anga Śruta (preachings of Tirthamkara Mahāvīra and scribed by ganadharas, and twelve Upānga Šruta (subordinate scriptures to the angaśruta but scribed by ācāryas other than ganadharas) (on the table to the right of the Upadhyāya) are jointly called the Ganipửaka. These canons form the foundation of the knowledge in the Jain religion. To do deep study of these, to guide others openly in proper study and to answer queries and clear doubts of disciples is the work of the upādhyāya.
The twenty five qualities of upādhyāya are: (1 - 11) - the eleven Angas, (12 - 23)-the twelve Upāngas, (24)-Carana sattari (seventy general rules of monks) and (25)-Karana sattarī (seventy special rules observed by monks).
To meditate over the Ņamo Uvajjhāyānas line as the flame of knowledge is helpful in attaining knowledge and education. This line is visualized with a blue glow. The blue colour imparts peace and tranquillity and helps in concentration.
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