Amrutvelni Sazzay

The text is a Gujarati translation and commentary of "Amrutvelni Sazzay," a Jain devotional poem authored by Upadhyay Shri Yashovijayji. The commentary is provided by Dhirajlal Dahyalaal Mehta and published by Jain Dharm Prasaran Trust.

Key Themes and Content:

• Praise for Upadhyay Shri Yashovijayji's Work: The book is presented as a collection of devotional songs (stavans and sajjays) composed by Upadhyay Shri Yashovijayji in Gujarati. His compositions are described as captivating, emotionally rich, and inspiring, encouraging repeated recitation and memorization.
• "Amrutvelni Sazzay" - The Nectar Vine: The central piece, "Amrutvelni Sazzay," is highlighted for its name reflecting its quality. It is said to be like a vine of nectar, with each stanza and verse dripping with sweetness and essence. Despite being only 29 verses long, its beauty is described as immeasurable and essential for spiritual seekers.
• Core Teachings (Panchasutra): The Sazzay is said to encapsulate the essence of the first sutra of the Panchasutra. It primarily explains three fundamental duties:
  1. Chatursaran (Four Shelters): Taking refuge in Arihants, Siddhas, Sadhus (Jain monks), and the Jain Dharma (teachings of the Tirthankaras).
  2. Ninda of Dus-krut (Condemnation of Wrongdoings): Repentance and self-condemnation for past sins and mistakes, particularly referencing the 18 Paapasthanakas (places of sin) and other spiritual concepts like eight views and the 67 principles of Samyak-twam (right faith).
  3. Anumodana of Su-krut (Appreciation of Virtuous Deeds): Joyful acknowledgment and appreciation of one's own good deeds and those of others, including saints, virtuous individuals, and even good qualities observed in those with incorrect views.
• Spiritual Guidance: The Sazzay is presented as offering significant ethical and spiritual instruction to the soul. It aims to change the inner disposition and provide wisdom through beautiful sayings.
• Purpose of Publication: The commentary is published to increase knowledge, faith, virtues, and devotion towards religion, promoting humility and discretion. The book is recommended for memorization and constant reading due to its profound meaning and concise nature.
• Praise for the Author's Dedication: The text acknowledges the immense contribution of spiritual masters like Upadhyay Shri Yashovijayji, who dedicated their lives to composing such profound spiritual literature, delving into deep philosophical topics.
• Detailed Explanation of the Sazzay's Verses: The commentary then proceeds to explain each verse of "Amrutvelni Sazzay" in detail, covering:
  • Verse 1 & 2: The importance of illuminating oneself with knowledge to dispel delusion and achieve inner peace, followed by the essence of seeking refuge in the path of "upasham" (equanimity) and appreciating virtuous beings.
  • Verse 3 & 4: The necessity of taking the four shelters (Arihant, Siddha, Sadhu, Dharma) and condemning one's own past sins, with detailed explanations of these four shelters.
  • Verse 5-11: Further elaboration on condemning various sins like violence, falsehood, theft, lust, greed, anger, pride, deceit, slander, and disrespect towards the Tirthankaras and spiritual preceptors.
  • Verse 12-21: The importance of appreciating good deeds (sukrut) – from the Pancha Parmeshthis (Arihant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyay, Sadhu) to householders (shravaks/shravikas) and even virtuous qualities in those with wrong faith, emphasizing that appreciation leads to spiritual growth and the destruction of past karma.
  • Verse 22-25: The concept of self-reflection, recognizing one's own flaws while appreciating others' virtues, understanding the transient nature of worldly possessions and relationships, and realizing the soul's true pure nature as knowledge and bliss.
  • Verse 26-28: The path to liberation involves embracing Dharma, conquering Moha (delusion), expanding knowledge through spiritual study, and maintaining an "udasin" (neutral/equanimous) state in all circumstances, considering it the royal road to spiritual attainment.
  • Verse 29: The concluding verse summarizes the teachings, highlighting the author (Upadhyay Shri Yashovijayji) and the beneficial nature of his work, promising good reputation to those who embrace its wisdom.
• Call to Action: The book concludes with a strong recommendation to read, recite, and spread the message of the Sazzay to benefit oneself and others, thereby promoting Jainism.

In essence, "Amrutvelni Sazzay" (with commentary) serves as a guide to living a virtuous life, understanding fundamental Jain principles, and striving for spiritual liberation through knowledge, devotion, repentance, and appreciation.