Adhyatma Vachan

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Adhyatma Vachan" by Punyavijay, based on the given pages:

Core Definition of Adhyatma (Spiritual Practice):

The text defines "Adhyatma" as the dedicated pursuit of the fivefold path of conduct (Gyānāchār, Darshanāchār, etc.) with the soul as the central focus. It emphasizes that this practice is like nectar, leading to profound peace in the present soul and ultimately to liberation (moksha).

Defining "Adhyatma Vachan" (Spiritual Discourse):

"Adhyatma Vachan" refers to words that illuminate the path of Adhyatma. These words are characterized by:

• Exclusive focus on the soul's welfare: They are solely directed towards the benefit of the self.
• Translation of Vitaraaga-dvesha: They are like an echo of the immortal words of those free from attachment and aversion (Vitaraaga-dvesha), devoid of passions like raga (attachment) and dvesha (aversion).
• Balance of knowledge and action: They do not advocate for an exclusive emphasis on either knowledge (gyana) or action (kriya). Instead, they promote the simultaneous strengthening of both.
• Promoting pure practice with understanding: They guide towards engaging in pure actions with correct understanding.

The Interdependence of Knowledge and Action:

The text uses the analogy of a bird needing two wings to fly and a chariot needing wheels to move. Similarly, Adhyatma requires the conjunction of knowledge and action. Without this union, it cannot be considered true Adhyatma.

The Importance of Self-Discrimination and Self-Welfare:

One who gains an understanding of the true nature of reality (vastu-tattva), discriminates between what is beneficial (hita) and what is not (ahit), and dedicates themselves to their own welfare while refraining from harmful actions, can ultimately achieve self-realization. Conversely, clinging to an isolated focus on either knowledge or action can lead to significant harm to oneself and others.

The Essence of Adhyatma - Inner Motivation:

Any action performed in Adhyatma is not for outward display or public recognition. It is solely for the purification and upliftment of one's own soul, with the father (an implied reference to a higher spiritual guide or self) as the focus.

The "Adhyatma Drishti" (Spiritual Insight):

One who possesses this inner insight is called an "Adhyātmi" or one with "Adhyatma Drishti." The text mentions great souls like Shri Anandghanji and Shri Chidanandji from the 17th and 19th centuries who possessed this vision, and notes that even in the present, rare souls may experience it partially.

The Challenge of Practicing Adhyatma:

Due to an eternal association with external material objects (parapudgal), it is exceedingly difficult for the soul to even develop an inclination or love towards Adhyatma, let alone practice it. The text refers to eight types of perspectives (as outlined by a great Acharya), stating that one is currently functioning in the second perspective, the "Tara-drishti."

The Futility of Mere Naming:

The text strongly asserts that mere verbal adherence to the name "Adhyatma" is useless. True Adhyatma, or the inclination towards it, is what matters. If one has a genuine inclination, a refined taste, and a forward-looking attitude towards Adhyatma, then their three "nikshepas" (names, establishment, and substance) of Adhyatma are true. The text cautions against neglecting any of these four aspects.

The Ultimate Goal:

The ultimate aspiration is that every author and reader can attain this form of Adhyatma and thus achieve the welfare of their own and others' souls.