Aptavani 13 U

A comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Aptavani 13 U" by Dada Bhagwan, published by Dada Bhagwan Foundation, is as follows:

Book Title: Aptavani 13 U (Uttarardh - Second Half) Author: Dada Bhagwan (Gnan described by Dada Bhagwan) Publisher: Dada Bhagwan Foundation

This book is part of the "Aptavani" series, which contains the direct spiritual discourse of Dada Bhagwan. Aptavani 13 is divided into two parts, Purvardh (first half) and Uttarardh (second half). This summary focuses on Aptavani 13, Uttarardh.

The book delves deeply into core Jain spiritual concepts through a question-and-answer format, with Dada Bhagwan providing profound insights. The central themes explored include:

1. Pragya (Wisdom/Inner Intelligence):

• Distinction from Intellect: Pragya is presented as a direct, pure energy of the soul, distinct from intellect (Buddhi) which is considered impure and external. While intellect helps understand worldly matters, Pragya leads to self-realization and liberation.
• Origin and Function: Pragya arises after Self-realization (Gnan) and acts as the soul's internal guide, protecting from worldly entanglement and steering towards liberation. It is described as the soul's representative.
• Pragya vs. Ajna (Ignorance): Ajna is the state of ignorance, associated with ego and the cycle of karma and rebirth. Pragya is the force that dismantles ignorance and leads to liberation.

2. Rag-Dvesh (Attachment-Aversion) and Related States:

• Root Cause of Suffering: Rag-Dvesh are identified as the primary drivers of suffering and the cycle of rebirth. The text clarifies that the ultimate root cause is Ajna (ignorance of the Self).
• Dvesh as the Primary Cause: While Rag and Dvesh are interconnected, Dvesh (aversion) is presented as the foundational cause that subsequently leads to Rag (attachment). Letting go of Dvesh is the initial step towards becoming Vitraag (free from Rag-Dvesh).
• Stages of Development: The text outlines a progression from overcoming Dvesh to attaining Samabhav (equanimity), Udasinta (indifference), and finally Vitraagta (absolute freedom from attachment-aversion).
• Pashast Rag (Beneficial Attachment): A unique concept of "beneficial attachment" towards spiritual means and the Gnani Purush (the Enlightened One) is discussed, as it helps in detaching from worldly attachments and ultimately leads to liberation.

3. Vitragata (Freedom from Rag-Dvesh) and related states:

• Vitragta as the Ultimate Goal: The state of being free from all Rag-Dvesh is the ultimate aim, leading to liberation.
• Stages and Signs: Vitraagta is described through various stages, with the ultimate sign being seeing the world as innocent. The path involves moving through indifference (Udasinta) and developing compassion.
• The Role of the Gnani: Remaining in touch with the Gnani Purush is crucial for developing Vitraagta. Their presence and guidance help in this transformation.

4. Gyan, Darshan, and Charitra (Knowledge, Vision, Conduct):

• The Three Jewels: These are presented as the path to liberation (Moksha).
• Akram vs. Kramik: In the Akram path, Darshan (Self-realization) is attained first, followed by Gyan (understanding of the Self) and then Charitra (living in accordance with the Self). This contrasts with the Kramik path, where Gyan is attained first.
• The Nature of True Knowledge: True knowledge (Gnan) is described as that which leads to Self-realization and is inherently free from ego. It is a direct, spontaneous understanding, not based on intellectual analysis.

5. Nihalamb (Foundationless/Self-Reliant):

• The Nature of the Self: The Self (Atma) is described as inherently Nihalamb – self-reliant, independent, and untouched by external circumstances.
• Worldly Attachments: The world operates on various forms of reliance (Avalamban), from physical needs to emotional support. These are all temporary and ultimately lead to suffering.
• The Path to Nihalamb: The journey towards Nihalamb involves gradually relinquishing all external dependencies. The ultimate step is to become free from even the reliance on the word "Shuddhatma" itself, merging into the absolute, unconditioned Self.
• The Role of the Gnani: The Gnani Purush is essential in guiding one towards this Nihalamb state, acting as a temporary support until self-reliance is achieved.

6. "Main, Bawa, and Mangaldas" Analogy:

• Understanding the Self: This is a key metaphor used by Dada Bhagwan to explain the different layers of existence within a being.
  • Mangaldas: Represents the physical body and its functions, the "doing" part that is subject to physical laws and changes.
  • Bawa: Represents the inner self, the ego or the internal manager that experiences, observes, and makes decisions based on beliefs and conditioning. This layer is subject to change based on circumstances and internal states.
  • Main (Aham): Represents the pure Self, the ultimate reality, the Knower (Gnyata) and Seer (Drashta), which is beyond all states and unchanging.
• The Path of Knowledge: The process of Self-realization involves recognizing the distinction between these three, and ultimately abiding as the pure Self ('Main'). The spiritual path involves detaching from Mangaldas and Bawa, and realizing the true nature of 'Main'. The Gnani helps in this process by revealing the distinction and guiding towards the absolute Self.

In essence, Aptavani 13 U offers a profound and practical path to spiritual liberation, emphasizing the discovery of the true Self through Self-realization, freedom from Rag-Dvesh, and the ultimate attainment of a Nihalamb, unshakeable state of being. The teachings are characterized by their directness, simplicity, and the emphasis on the grace of the Gnani Purush in facilitating this transformation.