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  • reference of sapta vyasan in Jain agamas
  • author Posted by
    Jain Follower

    reference of sapta vyasan in Jain agamas

    one year ago 289

    In Jainism, the concept of Sapta Vyasan (seven vices) is indeed discussed in the scriptures and Jain literature. While the exact term "Sapta Vyasan" is more commonly found in later Jain texts and commentaries rather than the earliest canonical Agamas, the underlying concept is present.

    Reference in Jain Agamas and Literature

    1. Jnatrdharmakatha Sutra (Jñātṛdharmakathā Sūtra)

    In this Agama, there are stories that highlight the dangers and consequences of indulgence in vices such as gambling, intoxication, and sensual pleasures.

    1. Niryuktis and Churnis (commentaries on Agamas)

    The detailed enumeration of Sapta Vyasanas is found in commentarial literature such as the Niryukti and Churni on the Agamas, especially associated with ethical conduct (śīla) and householders’ duties (śrāvaka-dharma).

    1. Uttarādhyayana Sūtra (Chapter 21, 22)

    The Uttarādhyayana Sūtra, a very important Jain text, explicitly warns householders (śrāvakas) against various vices, though it may not always use the collective term "Sapta Vyasan".

    The Seven Vices (Sapta Vyasan) in Jainism

    The Sapta Vyasan commonly listed in Jain texts are:

    1. Dyūta (gambling)
    2. Pāna (intoxication/drinking alcohol)
    3. Strī (illicit sexual relations)
    4. Mṛgayā (hunting)
    5. Vāṇijya (trading in forbidden goods)
    6. Vāgduṣṭata (abusive speech)
    7. Paradarabhāva (coveting others’ spouses)

    Some variations exist, but the first four (gambling, drinking, illicit sex, hunting) are always included and explicitly prohibited for laypeople in texts like the Ratnakaranda Śrāvakācāra (not an Agama, but a respected śrāvaka text).

    Supporting References

    • Ratnakaranda Śrāvakācāra (verse 69–70):
    "A wise householder should avoid the seven vices: gambling, drinking, meat-eating (hunting), womanizing, theft, slander, and violence."
    • Uttarādhyayana Sūtra (21.19–26):
    "Avoiding gambling, intoxicants, sexual misconduct, and hunting is praised as the conduct of an exemplary lay follower."

    Conclusion

    While the exact phrase "Sapta Vyasan" may not be found verbatim in the earliest Agamas, the idea and warning against these seven vices is present in the canonical texts and elaborated in later Jain literature. The Uttarādhyayana Sūtra and Jñātṛdharmakathā Sūtra are primary sources that discuss these vices, with further details in texts like the Ratnakaranda Śrāvakācāra and commentaries on the Agamas.

    References for further reading:

    • Uttarādhyayana Sūtra, chapters 21–22
    • Jñātṛdharmakathā Sūtra
    • Ratnakaranda Śrāvakācāra (verses 69–70)
    • Tattvārtha Sūtra with commentary (for householders’ conduct)

    If you need the exact verses or more detailed citations, please specify the text.

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