Adhyatma Barakhadi

अध्यात्म बारहखड़ी: A Comprehensive Summary

Book Title: अध्यात्म बारहखड़ी (Adhyatma Barakhadi) Author: Pandit Daulatram Kasliwal Editor: Gyanchand Biltiwala Publisher: Jain Vidyasansthan Rajasthan

Overview:

The "Adhyatma Barakhadi" is a significant Jain devotional and philosophical text composed by Pandit Daulatram Kasliwal in 1741 AD in Udaipur. The work is structured around the Hindi alphabet, using each letter from 'अ' (a) to 'ह' (ha) to form verses that extol the virtues of the pure soul, which is identified with God (Parmatma) and the Jinendra (victorious ones). The book is imbued with spiritual essence, celebrating the immortal, blissful self ('आतमराम').

Key Themes and Philosophical Underpinnings:

• The Nature of the Soul: The central theme is the inherent divinity of the soul, described as pure, blissful, and omniscient. The poet emphasizes that the true nature of the soul is divine and unchanging, free from the limitations of karma and the material world.
• Devotion to the Jinendra: The work is a testament to unwavering devotion to the Jinendras, who are seen as the embodiment of the liberated soul and the ultimate spiritual goal. The poet expresses a deep reverence for their teachings and their path to liberation.
• Equality in Devotion: Pandit Daulatram Kasliwal firmly rejects the notion of social hierarchy in the realm of spirituality. He posits that anyone who sincerely worships the divine ('प्रभु को भजता है') becomes one with them, regardless of their background. Those who are devoted are considered righteous ('साधर्मी'), while those who turn away are deemed heretical ('विधर्मी').
• Synthesis of Spiritual and Aesthetic Experience: While primarily spiritual and devotional, the "Adhyatma Barakhadi" masterfully incorporates various literary rasas (emotions/flavors), including Shanta (peace), Vairagya (detachment), and Bhakti (devotion), alongside Shringar (romance), Veer (heroism), and even Vibhatsa (disgust), where appropriate. This demonstrates a rich understanding of literary expression and its potential to convey profound spiritual truths.
• Linguistic Prowess: The poet showcases his expertise in the Dhundhari language (a regional dialect of Rajasthani) and his deep appreciation for the power of language. He views words not merely as tools for communication but as reflections of the divine ('शब्द-शब्द में प्रभु स्वरूप देखते हैं'), believing that every syllable can resonate with the divine essence.
• The Path to Liberation: The text touches upon various aspects of the spiritual journey, including:
  • The concept of the 'Ajapa Japa' (unspoken mantra) as a powerful means of self-realization and divine vision.
  • The understanding that all worldly pursuits and accumulations of merit or demerit (pap-punya) are ultimately obstacles to self-realization, which lies beyond them.
  • The omnipresence of the divine, accessible through inner experience and the recognition of the "So'ham" (I am That) sound pervading within.
  • The transformative power of devotion, which is described as the mother of spiritual and material fulfillment ('भक्ति भुक्ति एवं मुक्ति की माता है') and the source of virtues.
• Inclusivity of Divine Names: The text attributes divine qualities and names found in various traditions to the Jinendra, referring to them as Hari, Hara, Buddha, Sugata, Rudra, and Shiva. Their inherent energies are described as Radha, Bhavani, and Chandi, emphasizing the unity of the divine essence across different spiritual expressions.
• The Role of the Householder: The poet addresses householders who possess spiritual inclination, advising them to remain detached from worldly affairs while residing in their homes, like a traveler or guest, and to savor the nectar of devotion.
• The Significance of Scriptural Study: The text highlights the importance of studying scriptures and the teachings of the Tirthankaras (Jinvani) as a means to escape the well of worldly existence.
• Poetic Style and Metre: Pandit Daulatram Kasliwal's skillful use of diverse poetic metres like Aril, Tribhangi, Indravajra, Motidan, Bhujangi Prayat, Doha, Chaupai, Chhappay, Savaiya, and Soratha enhances the aesthetic appeal and devotional fervor of the work.

Structure and Content:

The book begins with an invocation and glorification of the Supreme Being, followed by an exploration of Omkar (the sacred syllable 'Om') and its significance. The core of the "Adhyatma Barakhadi" lies in the alphabetical verses, where each letter is used to describe the attributes and names of the divine. The text also references various aspects of Jain philosophy, including the nature of the soul, karma, liberation, and the path to spiritual enlightenment. It includes a glossary of difficult words and references to other Jain scriptures.

Editorial Contribution:

The editing by Shri Gyanchand Biltiwala is crucial for bringing this ancient text to light. His meticulous work in editing and compiling the text for publication by the Jain Vidyasansthan Rajasthan has made this valuable spiritual resource accessible to a wider audience.

Conclusion:

"Adhyatma Barakhadi" is a profound spiritual and literary work that offers a beautiful synthesis of devotion, philosophy, and poetic artistry. It serves as a guide for spiritual seekers, emphasizing the inherent divinity of the soul and the transformative power of devotion to the Jinendra, all expressed through the vibrant medium of the Dhundhari language.