Appanam Saranam Gacchhami

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Appanam Saranam Gacchhami" by Acharya Mahapragna, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Appanam Saranam Gacchhami (Meaning: I Take Refuge in My Own Self) Author: Mahapragna Acharya Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati

Core Theme:

The central and radical message of this book, as articulated by Acharya Mahapragna, is the profound call to seek refuge in one's own self (Atman). This is presented as a path that transcends seeking refuge in external deities, scriptures, or organizations, moving beyond the duality of a separate supreme power and the individual self. The book argues that true peace, liberation, and self-realization are found within.

Key Concepts and Arguments:

1. The Call to Inner Refuge ("Appanam Saranam Gacchhami"):

   • This phrase is presented as a higher truth that elevates beyond traditional calls for refuge found in other spiritual traditions like the Bhagavad Gita ("Mamekam Sharanam Vraj" - Take refuge in Me) or Buddhism ("Buddham Sharanam Gacchhami," etc.).
   • Acharya Mahapragna asserts that the refuge offered by external sources (like Krishna in Gita or Buddha in Tripitaka) is not ultimately separate from one's own self. The true source of peace and solace lies within the individual soul.
   • This approach is described as speaking the language of Advaita (non-duality), where the individual becomes their own savior. The refuge is not external but internal.

2. The Search for Peace and Samadhi:

   • The book identifies the universal human quest for peace and samadhi (a state of mental stillness and equanimity).
   • It argues that facing life's inherent "diseases" (vyadhi - physical ailments), "afflictions" (adhi - mental suffering), and "attachments" (upadhi - emotional turmoil, passions) is unavoidable.
   • Samadhi is presented as the ultimate state of being, free from mental and emotional suffering, and capable of calmly enduring physical discomforts.

3. The Role of Preksha (Mindfulness/Observation):

   • Preksha is highlighted as a fundamental principle and practice for achieving samadhi.
   • Preksha is described as the "seed" and the "goal" of samadhi. It begins with observing the purity of the mind and culminates in consciousness being free from all influences.
   • The book connects Preksha to modern scientific concepts like Biofeedback, suggesting a compatibility between ancient spiritual practices and contemporary science. It emphasizes that Preksha is not just observation but also involves the application of willpower and the exploration of one's inner potential.

4. Bridging the Gap Between Knowledge and Action:

   • A significant problem addressed is the "gap between knowledge and action" (gyan aur acharan ki doori). People know what is right but fail to practice it.
   • This gap is attributed to the allure of sensory pleasures and the lack of inner "juice" or rasa in principles. True transformation happens when principles become enjoyable (saralta mein badal jata hai).
   • The solution lies in discovering a "greater joy" (bada anand) within, which makes the pursuit of fleeting sensory pleasures insignificant. This inner joy is linked to the generation of alpha brainwaves, a concept from neuroscience.

5. Overcoming Obstacles (Vyadhi, Adhi, Upadhi):

   • The path to samadhi involves overcoming three major obstacles:
     • Vyadhi (physical ailments): Controlled through Preksha and self-discipline, not just external medication.
     • Adhi (mental afflictions): Caused by the mind's reactions to external pleasant or unpleasant stimuli, based on misconceptions (bhranti). The mind is the primary object of attention and healing.
     • Upadhi (passions, emotional disturbances): The deepest level, originating from the endocrine glands and inner drives like anger, greed, envy, etc. These need to be addressed at their root through spiritual practices.

6. The Scientific Basis of Spiritual Practices:

   • Acharya Mahapragna advocates for integrating spirituality with science. He sees a strong connection between Preksha-dhyana and scientific methods like Biofeedback.
   • The book suggests that scientific discoveries can illuminate the mysteries of spiritual practices, making them more accessible and understandable.

7. The Nature of Consciousness and Self-Realization:

   • The text explores the idea of consciousness as a powerful entity, capable of transforming habits and personality.
   • It touches upon the concept of the "self" (Atman) as the ultimate reality, encompassing consciousness, power, and bliss.
   • The book emphasizes self-discovery and self-reliance, stating that one must become their own guru and find faith in their own existence.

8. The Importance of Contemplation and Inner Exploration:

   • The book encourages self-observation (Preksha) and introspection to understand one's inner state and identify the roots of problems.
   • It highlights the need to move beyond mere intellectual knowledge (shrut) to experiential realization (anubhav).

9. The "Appanam Saranam Gacchhami" as a Transformative Practice:

   • The book is a compilation of discourses given during four camps in Delhi and Ludhiana, focusing on the path to samadhi through Preksha-dhyana.
   • It aims to provide a practical guide for individuals seeking solutions to their inner turmoil and suffering.

Overall Message:

"Appanam Saranam Gacchhami" is a profound spiritual and philosophical work that guides the reader towards inner self-reliance and self-discovery. It advocates for a path of inner transformation through mindfulness (Preksha) and self-awareness, leading to samadhi and liberation from suffering. The teachings are presented in a way that bridges traditional Jain wisdom with modern psychological and scientific understanding, making the path to inner peace and strength accessible and relevant for contemporary life.