Nandanvana

Author(s): N L Jain
Publisher: Parshwanath Vidyapith

Page 77

Some Thoughts on Changes in Order of Some Jaina Chains ... : (57)
2. The Order of the Triad of Mind, Body and Speech
We normally talk about mind, speech and body. This indicates to speak and act after thinking properly. This order is ancient and canonical. The concepts of three guards (guptis), violences (dandas) and censures (garhā), etc. indicate the canonical order of this triad (Sthānānga, p. 161-62). However, Umāsvāti has changed this order also in his text in 6.1 (The activity is defined as the actions of body, speech and mind). This change of order is also a matter of consideration. Which is more important-mind or body? Action is more important or thoughts or mind which leads to action? In view of the history of the development of the concept of influx and bondage of karmas, Umāsvāti seems to be traditionalist because the concept of importance of mind, thoughts or psychology was prevalent even in the days prior to Kundakunda. The mind is the basis of thoughts, emotions and feelings. Does Umāsvāti wish to postulate the secondary character of mind as an introduction to devotionalism to give it the last place in the order? The intellectual world is staunch supporter of mind-based action. The western scholars have also begun thinking over this change in order. This order, thus, also requires examination despite the opinion of Ohira and Johnson to call this change as of no significance." 3. The Order of the Triad of Planning, Preparation and Commencement
The Jainas have two important theories: (i) Karmology and (ii) Passionolgy. The basis of 108 beads in rosaries is the extension of the theory of passion (4x 3x3x3-planning etc.). The order of planning, preparation and commencement (Samarambha, Samārambha and Ārambha) is different in canons. It is different in Digambara canons. This change of order has resulted in difference in meaning of some terms also (Samārambha). The Svetambara texts like Sthānārga (3.16 or 7.84-89) have the following different order of this triad:
Commencement, Planning and Repentance (Samārambha)
Here, there is indication of planning on the basis of prior action. In addition, if the action is inauspicious, there is indication of mental tendency of repentance. Thus, we have:
Action, Mind, Mental emotions which describe the last place for mind. This point seems to be in contrast with earlier canonical postulates and indicates about two