Aradhana Swarup - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Aradhana Swarup" by Dharmchand Harjivandas, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Aradhana Swarup (The Nature of Devotion/Practice) Author: Munim Dharamchandji Harjivandas, Palitana Publisher: Moolchand Kisandas Kapadia, Surat Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/020069/1

Overall Purpose and Context: "Aradhana Swarup" is a Jain text that aims to elucidate the principles and practices of Jain devotion and spiritual progress. It appears to be a collection of devotional verses, stutis, philosophical explanations, and biographical accounts, compiled and presented with the intention of guiding spiritual seekers. The book was published by the "Digambar Jain" publication and was distributed as a gift to its subscribers.

Key Content and Themes:

Devotional Verses and Stutis (Pages 12 onwards): The text includes devotional songs and prayers. A significant portion is dedicated to the "Vis Vyahman Stuti" (Verse of the Twenty Present Tirthankaras), describing their divine attributes and the aspiration to worship them. This section emphasizes the concept of the soul as its own refuge and the importance of meditating on the enlightened beings (Parameshtis).
Philosophical Exposition (Pages 12-33):
- The Five Parameshtis: The text explains the significance of the five supreme beings (Arhant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyay, Sadhu) and how contemplating them leads to the realization of the self.
- The Nature of the Soul: It clarifies that the soul is inherently divine and becomes the Parameshti after shedding karmic impurities. The importance of remembering, meditating, and bowing to the perfected beings is highlighted for spiritual progress.
- Samayaktva (Right Faith/Perception): A substantial portion is dedicated to explaining the concept of Samayaktva, its different types (Upashamika, Kshāyika, Vedaka/Kshayopashamika), and the virtues and faults associated with it.
  - Faults of Samayaktva: The text details the "Chal" (fickle), "Mal" (impure), and "Agadh" (unstable) qualities that can affect Right Faith due to the influence of certain karmic dispositions. Examples and analogies are used to illustrate these concepts.
  - Virtues of Samayaktva (Ashta Guna): It elaborates on the eight virtues that purify Right Faith, including:
    - Nihshankita (Doubtlessness): Firm faith in Jain teachings without doubt.
    - Nihkankshita (Desirelessness): Freedom from desires for worldly pleasures or outcomes from religious practices.
    - Nirvichikitsa (Disgustlessness): Freedom from disgust towards the physical body, impurities, or the natural processes of life.
    - Amoodhadrushtita (Freedom from Delusion): Correct perception without being misled by false beliefs or practices.
    - Upagruhana (Support/Upliftment): Supporting and encouraging others in their spiritual journey, while concealing their faults.
    - Sthitikaran (Stabilization): Steadfastness in faith and practice, especially during difficult times.
    - Vatsalya (Affection/Compassion): Love and affection for the virtuous, religious practices, and sacred places.
    - Prabhavana (Manifestation/Propagation): Actively promoting and glorifying Jainism through one's conduct and teachings.
- Types of Vows (Vratas): The text details the vows of a householder (Shravaka):
  - Pancha Anuvratas (Five Minor Vows): Non-violence (Ahimsa), Truthfulness (Satya), Non-stealing (Asteya), Celibacy/Chastity (Brahmacharya), and Non-possessiveness (Aparigraha).
  - Three Gunavratas (Three Augmenting Vows): Restriction of directions (Dikparimana), restriction of time and place (Deshavakashik), and non-injurious actions (Anarthadanda Viramana).
  - Four Shiksavratas (Four Training Vows): Regulation of consumables (Bhoga-upabhoga Parimana), periods of meditation (Samayika), fasting on auspicious days (Proshadhopavasa), and sharing with the deserving (Atithisamvibhaga).
- Stages of Devotion (Pratimas): It outlines various stages of spiritual progress for householders, starting from the first stage of "Darshan Pratima" (adherence to Right Faith and initial vows) up to stages involving more rigorous practices like abstinence from certain foods, fasting, and celibacy.
Biographical Sketch (Pages 5-9): A significant portion of the introductory pages is dedicated to a biographical sketch of Seth Thakarshi Nathubhai of Ghogha (Bhavnagar).
- Background: He was a respected merchant and member of the Digambar Jain community. The account highlights his simple life, his charitable contributions, and the positive impact of his legacy.
- Charitable Endeavors: The text details Seth Thakarshi Nathubhai's death and the significant distribution of his wealth (approximately Rs. 1500) for various charitable causes, including feeding the poor, animal welfare, maintaining temples, supporting educational institutions, and aiding orphanages. This section serves as an example of ideal Jain philanthropy.
- Moral of the Biography: The biography emphasizes that even ordinary individuals, through virtuous conduct and dedicated spiritual practice, can leave a lasting positive impact and serve as an inspiration to others. It encourages the Jain community to follow such examples of selfless giving and dedication to spiritual principles.
Practical Guidance and Rituals:
- Mantra Japa (Pages 57-58): The text lists various powerful Jain mantras (Panch Parmeshthi mantras of different lengths) and the importance of reciting them using a rosary.
- Ashtanga Vandana (Pages 53-54): It explains the correct method of performing Ashtanga Vandana (prostration with eight parts of the body touching the ground) and provides accompanying prayers.
- Devotional Songs and Poems: The book includes various devotional songs (pads) and poems, including those related to the birth of Tirthankaras (Janma-kalyanaka), praises of gurus, and verses reflecting on the soul's nature and spiritual path.
Core Jain Principles (Page 50):
- Ahimsa Paramo Dharma (Non-violence is the Supreme Religion): This fundamental principle is emphasized.
- Yato Dharmastato Jayah (Where there is Dharma, there is Victory): The text states that righteousness leads to success.
- Definitions of Himsa (Violence) and Daya (Compassion): It provides clear definitions, distinguishing between mental, verbal, and physical violence, and emphasizing that true compassion lies in protecting the soul and preventing karmic entanglement.
The Four Yogas/Anuyogas (Pages 50-51): The text briefly mentions the fourfold classification of Jain scriptures: Prathamanuyoga (narratives), Karananuyoga (cosmology and karmic laws), Charananyoga (conduct and ethics), and Dravyanuyoga (metaphysics and ontology).
Salakapurushas (Virtuous Men) and Sensory Perception (Pages 51-52): The text lists the 63 illustrious individuals in Jainism and describes the classification of beings based on the number of senses they possess.

Overall Message and Significance: "Aradhana Swarup" serves as a guide for spiritual aspirants within the Jain tradition. It aims to deepen their understanding of core Jain philosophies, inspire devotional practices through verses and prayers, and provide practical guidance on ethical conduct and ritual observances. The inclusion of the biography of Seth Thakarshi Nathubhai underscores the importance of righteous living and charitable actions as integral components of spiritual practice. The book emphasizes the pursuit of liberation through correct faith, knowledge, and conduct.