Aradhana Sara

This document is a detailed Jain religious text titled "Aradhana Sara" (Essence of Devotion/Practice). Here's a comprehensive summary based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Aradhana Sara (આરાધના સાર) Author: Kanakvijay (as editor) Publisher: Vijaysiddhisuri Granthmala (vijaysiddhisuri Granthmala -vijaysiddhisuri Granthmala) Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/023103/1

Overall Purpose: The "Aradhana Sara" is presented as a compilation of essential Jain practices and philosophical tenets, particularly focusing on "Antim Aradhana" (अन्तिम आराधना), which translates to "ultimate devotion" or "final practices." This refers to the spiritual preparations and meditations undertaken at the end of one's life to achieve a favorable rebirth or liberation (moksha).

Key Contents and Themes:

1. Compilation of Core Texts: The book primarily contains the original Sanskrit/Prakrit verses (Mool) and their Gujarati translations/explanations (Bhavanuvad) of four important Prakrit texts composed by Shrutasthavir Bhagwan Shri Veerabhadra Maharsi (શ્રુતસ્થવિર ભગવાન શ્રી વીરભદ્ર મહર્ષિ), a direct disciple of Lord Mahavir. These four texts are:

   • Shri Chausarana Panha (શ્રી ચઉસરણ પન્ના): This text likely deals with the fourfold refuge or protection in Jainism (Arihant, Siddha, Sadhu, Dharma). The provided text includes a detailed breakdown of the six daily obligatory practices (Avasyaka) and the significance of the initial verses.
   • Shri Aaur Pucchhkhana Panha (શ્રી આઉર પચ્ચક્ખાણ પન્ના): This text focuses on "Pachchakkhan" (पच्चक्खाण), which means vows or renunciations. Specifically, it delves into the concept of "Bal Pandita Maran" (बालपंडित मरण - death of a learned but not fully enlightened being) and "Pandita Maran" (पंडित मरण - death of the enlightened). It discusses the importance of renouncing worldly desires and attachments, especially at the end of life, and the conditions for attaining a favorable state. It also touches upon the five types of death and the significance of the Jewel of Right Faith (Samyagdarshan).
   • Shri Bhakta Parina Panha (શ્રી ભક્તપરિણય પન્ના): This text deals with "Bhakti" (भक्ति - devotion) and its role in spiritual practice, particularly in the context of death. It emphasizes the importance of devotion to the Tirthankaras and the spiritual path, contrasting worldly pleasures with the ultimate bliss of liberation. It also provides guidance on the practices leading to a peaceful death.
   • Shri Santhara Panha (શ્રી સંથાગ પરિણય પન્ના): This text focuses on "Santhara" or "Sallekhana" (सल्लेखना), which is the Jain practice of gradual voluntary fasting and renunciation towards the end of life, done with equanimity and spiritual preparedness. It describes the conditions for performing Santhara correctly, the types of Santhara (e.g., Savichara and Avichara), and the profound spiritual benefits. It highlights the purity and significance of this practice, even for those who may have minor flaws.

2. Emphasis on "Antim Aradhana": A central theme is the importance of preparing for death with a serene and devoted mind. The text stresses that the ultimate outcome of one's spiritual journey is often determined by the state of mind during the final moments.

3. Philosophical Foundation: The text grounds these practices in Jain philosophy, discussing the nature of the soul, the cycle of birth and death (samsara), the role of karma, the importance of right faith (samyagdarshan), right knowledge (samyagjnana), and right conduct (samyakcharitra) – collectively known as the Ratnatrayi (રત્નત્રયી). It explains how these principles help overcome attachments and achieve liberation.

4. Spiritual Guidance: The book serves as a guide for monks, nuns, and lay followers (both male and female) on how to live a life of devotion and prepare for a peaceful and spiritually beneficial death. It emphasizes the need for purity of mind, detachment, and steadfast adherence to Jain principles.

5. Editor's and Publisher's Notes:

   • The "Nivedan" (નિવેદન - Foreword) acknowledges the contribution of Acharyadev Shrimad Vijay Siddhsurishwarji Maharaj and highlights the meticulous work of Muniraj Shrimad Kanakvijayji in translating and editing the texts.
   • The "Aabhar Darshan" (આભાર દર્શન - Expression of Gratitude) thanks the donors who supported the publication.
   • The "Shuddhi Suchan" (શુદ્ધિ સૂચન - Correction Notice) addresses any printing or textual errors found in the book.

6. Structure and Presentation: The book is structured with an introduction, followed by the original verses and their translations for each of the four texts. It includes detailed explanations of the concepts and practices.

In essence, "Aradhana Sara" is a profound Jain scripture that encapsulates the vital teachings on preparing for the ultimate spiritual journey, emphasizing equanimity, devotion, and detachment as key to achieving a life of purpose and ultimately, liberation.