Acharya Hastimalji Vachan Aur Pravachan

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, "Acharya Hastimalji Vachan aur Pravachan":

This text is an exploration of the teachings and discourses of Acharya Hastimalji Maharaj, compiled and discussed by Dr. Mahendrasagar Prachandiya. The author highlights Acharya Hastimalji as a unique spiritual leader who embodied a balance of qualities: the "heat" of his asceticism, the "coolness" of self-realization, the "height" of his conduct, and the "depth" of his knowledge. He is described as a revolutionary saint who lived independently and embraced death as a celebration, setting an exemplary ideal for others.

The core of the discussion revolves around the significance of Acharya Hastimalji's "Vachan" (words or sayings) and "Pravachan" (discourses or sermons). The author defines "Vachan" not just as spoken words, but as carefully chosen, welfare-oriented utterances, often rooted in the principles of "Samiti" (mindfulness in action) observed by Jain monks. These "Vachan," when delivered with the clarity and depth gained from spiritual practice and knowledge, transform into "Pravachan," which purify the listener's intellect and guide them towards spiritual progress.

The text specifically references two published collections of Acharya Hastimalji's discourses:

• 'Gajendra Vyakhyan Mala' (Part 3): This volume contains seven discourses delivered during the Paryushan festival. It covers a range of topics from philosophical doctrines to the practice of charity. The author notes that these discourses provide guidance for seekers from the initial stages of spiritual practice to the ultimate goal, and also offer insights into being an ideal householder and building an ideal society.

  • A key excerpt from this volume emphasizes "Bodha Karo, Bandhan Ko Todo" (Realize and Break the Bonds), where Acharya Hastimalji explains that attachment and possessiveness (Mamata) towards any possession, whether animate or inanimate, leads to suffering.
  • Another excerpt on 'Dan Prakaran' (Charity) defines "Satvik Dan" (pure charity) as giving selflessly without expecting any return or reward, to a deserving recipient at the appropriate time and place, a teaching attributed to Bhagwan Mahavir.

• 'Gajendra Vyakhyan Mala' (Part 6): This collection comprises discourses given during Acharya Hastimalji's rainy season retreat in Jalgaon. Emphasizing the importance of aligning knowledge with action, these discourses inspire "Samayik" (meditative practice) and "Swadhyay" (self-study), fostering awareness and spiritual growth. The focus here is on character building, purity of conduct, and the practice of self-study.

  • A discourse on Vrat (vows) advises practitioners to diligently observe vows like Paushadh and to maintain equanimity, avoiding agitated language, anger, or abuse. Self-control of body and mind is crucial for the success of these observances.
  • In a discourse on Parigraha (possessions), Acharya Hastimalji uses vivid analogies, comparing excessive wealth accumulation to building a ship of gold and silver only to sink in the ocean. He teaches that while it's permissible to use wealth for family needs, one should not be controlled by it. Wealth should be a tool to ride upon, not something that rides on you, lest it drown you. This is presented as the teaching of the Arihant Bhagwan.

• 'Prarthana Pravachan' (Prayer Discourses): This book, with its first edition in 1962 and a second in 1960, is a compilation of discourses on the nature and significance of prayer. The author praises it for filling a gap in the understanding of prayer from a clear perspective. Acharya Hastimalji expounds on the essence of prayer, stating that its lifeblood is Bhakti (devotion). True prayer arises spontaneously from a fervent heart overflowing with devotion.

The author further analyzes the style and impact of Acharya Hastimalji's discourses. They are described as having a unique blend of the speaker's extensive study of scriptures and profound personal experience. His teachings are presented in a way that deeply affects the listener or reader, often by breaking down complex spiritual concepts into small, actionable resolutions for daily life. His discourses are characterized by their ability to make difficult subjects comprehensible through relatable examples and metaphors drawn from life's experiences.

The text highlights the "influence" (Prabhavana) that permeates his discourses, making them highly impactful. He skillfully integrates ancient scriptural maxims, reinterpreting them in a modern, practical context to demonstrate their relevance and meaning. The language used is described as accessible, employing concise sentences and carefully chosen word pairings to convey his message effectively. The very style and delivery of his words create a captivating, almost hypnotic effect, drawing the listener's attention and compelling them to engage with the teachings.

In essence, the summary concludes that Acharya Hastimalji's discourses are influential, skillful, and rich in meaning. Their study and contemplation offer an unparalleled inspiration for individuals to progress and refine themselves, guiding them towards spiritual betterment.

The text also includes a short devotional poem by Muni Shri Sujanmalji Maharaj, titled "Anubhav" (Experience), further underscoring the theme of spiritual realization and the importance of internal justice and knowledge.