Question

"Atithisamyibhaga" is a division or subtype of which of the following vows?

• A. Shikshavrata (Disciplinary Vows)
• B. Gunavrata (Multiplier Vows)
• C. Mahavrata (Great Vows)
• D. Anuvrata (Minor Vows)

Hint:

To remember the 12 Shravaka vows, use the formula 5-3-4. Atithisamyibhaga is the final "discipline" (Shiksha) that involves external action (sharing), whereas others are internal or restrictive.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
In Jainism, the ethical code for a householder (Shravaka) is meticulously structured to facilitate gradual spiritual evolution. Unlike the rigorous, absolute vows of a monk (Mahavratas), a layperson follows a set of twelve vows known as the "Baras Vrata". These twelve vows are strategically categorized into three groups: the five Anuvratas (basic minor vows), the three Gunavratas (vows that enhance the quality of the minor vows), and the four Shikshavratas (vows of spiritual discipline that prepare the practitioner for the life of a monk). Understanding the "Atithisamyibhaga" requires looking into the fourth Shikshavrata, which deals with the virtue of sharing and hospitality towards spiritual guests.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The term "Atithi" literally translates to "one who has no fixed date of arrival" (A-tithi), referring specifically to wandering Jain monks who do not announce their arrival or stay in one place permanently. "Samvibhaga" means the equitable distribution or sharing of resources.
The four Shikshavratas are:
1. Samayika: Practicing equanimity and meditation for 48 minutes.
2. Proshadhopavasa: Observance of fasting on specific lunar days (8th and 14th of the month) to detach from worldly needs.
3. Upabhoga-Paribhoga Parimana: Setting daily limits on consumable goods (like food) and non-consumable items (like clothes or jewelry) to curb greed.
4. Atithisamyibhaga: The vow of sharing food, medicine, shelter, and knowledge with "Atithis" (monks) or other righteous fellow-believers (Sadharmikas).
The Atithisamyibhaga Vrata is not merely about charity; it is a profound spiritual discipline. It is also known as "Vaiyavritya" (service) or "Sadhutarpana". By offering pure, acceptable (Prasuk) food to a monk with high devotion, a householder gains immense "Punya" (merit) and facilitates the monk's journey toward liberation. This act helps the householder practice detachment from their own possessions. It acts as a bridge between the householder's life and the eventual renunciant life. The importance of this vow is highlighted in texts like the Ratnakaranda Shravakachara, where Acharya Samantabhadra explains that serving a guest with the "nine-fold devotion" (Navadha-Bhakti) is essential for a true Shravaka. Since this is a training or "Shiksha" for higher spiritual states, it is classified under Shikshavrata.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The Atithisamyibhaga vow is the fourth discipline among the Shikshavratas, emphasizing the sharing of necessities with ascetic guests to cultivate detachment and merit.