Adjust Every Where - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Adjust Everywhere" by Dada Bhagwan, based on the provided pages:

Core Message: The Universal Principle of "Adapt to Everything"

The central and most emphasized teaching in "Adjust Everywhere" is the fundamental necessity of adapting to every situation and every person. Dada Bhagwan posits this as the ultimate key to peace, happiness, and ultimately, spiritual liberation (Moksha). The book argues that life is a continuous series of adjustments, and the ability to adapt is not just beneficial, but essential for navigating the complexities of existence.

Understanding the Teachings and the Source:

Gnani Purush "Dadashri": The teachings are attributed to Ambalal Muljibhai Patel, who, after a spontaneous self-realization in 1958, became known as Dada Bhagwan (or Dadashri). He explained that "Dada Bhagwan" is the fully manifested Self within him, acting as an instrument for the salvation of humanity.
Akram Vignan: Dada Bhagwan's path is called "Akram Vignan," meaning a direct, step-less path to self-realization. This is contrasted with "Kram," the traditional, step-by-step spiritual path. Akram Vignan offers a shortcut to spiritual bliss.
Gnan Vidhi: The spiritual knowledge (Gnan) is transmitted through a scientific process called Gnan Vidhi, which can be completed in under two hours. This process is what enables the spiritual awakening and the ability to understand and apply the teachings.
Succession of Spiritual Masters: After Dada Bhagwan left his mortal body, Dr. Niruben Amin continued his work, and upon her departure, Shri Deepakbhai Desai became the current Atmagnani (knower of the Self) who transmits this knowledge.

Key Principles and Applications of "Adapt to Everything":

Preventing Conflict and Cultivating Peace: The primary benefit of adapting is the elimination of conflict. By adjusting to others, individuals prevent disagreements and foster harmony in their relationships and lives. The absence of conflict leads to inner peace and happiness.
Understanding Different Personalities (Prakrutis): The world is filled with diverse personalities (prakrutis). To get along with people, especially those with whom one clashes, adaptation is crucial. Instead of trying to change others, one must understand their inherent nature and adjust accordingly. The book uses the analogy of a garden with various flowers (roses, jasmine, etc.) to illustrate that each has its unique qualities and should be appreciated as it is.
Adapting to Changing Times: The world is constantly evolving. Holding onto outdated ways leads to suffering. One must adapt to the current era and its developments, rather than criticizing or interfering with new trends, especially when dealing with younger generations.
Dealing with Unpleasant People and Situations: The teachings extend to adapting to those who are difficult, negative, or even those who are considered "wrong." The principle is to adapt even to those who do not adapt to you. This is not about condoning wrong behavior but about managing one's own reactions to maintain inner peace.
The Role of the Spouse: Spouses are presented as "counterbalances" in a marriage, essential for stability. Disagreements often arise from differing perspectives and "rotations" (speed of thought). The key is for one partner to adapt, de-escalating the conflict. The book advises against trying to "improve" a spouse, as their inherent nature is unlikely to change. Instead, acceptance and adaptation are the path to harmony.
The "I Don't Know" Attitude: The text encourages humility and an "I don't know" attitude. This fosters a willingness to adapt and learn, rather than asserting one's own potentially limited or relative truth.
Practical Application: The teachings are not theoretical but practical for daily life. Examples are given for adapting during meals, in conversations, and even in mundane tasks like taking a bath. The emphasis is on avoiding arguments, accepting what is presented, and focusing on maintaining harmony.
The Science of Adaptation: Dada Bhagwan presents adaptation as a science. It involves understanding the "rotations" of others and adjusting one's own communication and expectations accordingly, like using a "counter-pulley" to match speeds.
Overcoming Ignorance: Ignorance of the true Self and the nature of the world is identified as the root cause of conflict. By gaining the knowledge of the Self and practicing adaptation, one can overcome this ignorance.
"Whatever Happened is Justice": Underlying these teachings is the concept of "vyavasthit," the scientific circumstantial evidence of natural laws, suggesting that what occurs is divinely ordained and just, leading to the acceptance of all situations.

In essence, "Adjust Everywhere" provides a profound and practical guide to navigating life with grace, peace, and spiritual progress. By embracing the principle of adaptation, individuals can dissolve conflicts, cultivate harmonious relationships, and ultimately realize their true Self.