Aradhanapataka Me Samadhimaran Ki Avadharna

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Aradhanapataka me Samadhimaran ki Avadharna (Samalochanaatmaka Adhyayan)" by Sadhvi Dr. Pratibhashreeji, with research direction and editing by Dr. Sagarmal Jain, published by Prachya Vidyapith Shajapur:

Title: Aradhanapataka me Samadhimaran ki Avadharna (Samalochanaatmaka Adhyayan) Author: Sadhvi Dr. Pratibhashreeji Research Director & Editor: Dr. Sagarmal Jain Publisher: Prachya Vidyapith, Shajapur (M.P.) & Guru Pushkar Sadhana Kendra, Udaipur (Raj.) Publication Year: December 2010 (First Edition) ISBN: 978-81-910801-0-1

Core Concept: Samadhi Maran (Conscious and Peaceful Death) in the Aradhanapataka

This book presents a critical and analytical study of the concept of Samadhi Maran (conscious and peaceful death) as described in the ancient Jain text, Aradhanapataka Prakirnak. The author, Sadhvi Dr. Pratibhashreeji, meticulously examines the text's depiction of this ultimate spiritual practice within Jainism.

Key Themes and Findings:

1. Significance of Samadhi Maran in Jainism:

   • The book emphasizes that Samadhi Maran, also known as Sallekhana or Santhara, is considered the highest form of penance (Tapa) in Jainism. It's the culmination of spiritual discipline, where a soul, free from the fear of death, consciously and equanimously embraces the end of its life.
   • Attaining Samadhi Maran through penance leads to the purification of the soul, enabling it to attain its true, blissful state, thus achieving liberation (Moksha).

2. Analysis of Aradhanapataka:

   • Aradhanapataka Prakirnak is a significant Jain text composed in 932 Gathas (verses) in the Prakrit language. It provides a detailed and systematic explanation of Samadhi Maran.
   • The author notes that, apart from an edition by Muni Punyavijayji, the text had not been translated or critically studied for the benefit of the general public or even Sanskrit/Prakrit scholars, limiting its accessibility. This research aims to bridge that gap.
   • The book meticulously analyzes the Aradhanapataka, suggesting its composition around the 6th century CE, placing it before the 10th-century work by Veerabhadra, also titled Aradhanapataka.

3. Detailed Examination of Samadhi Maran Practices:

   • The book details the comprehensive process of Samadhi Maran as outlined in the Aradhanapataka, covering 32 specific aspects or "doors" (Dwaras). These include:
     • Sanklekhana (Fasting and Austerity): Differentiating between internal (Abhyantar) and external (Bahya) Sanklekhana. Internal Sanklekhana involves controlling passions (Kashayas), while external Sanklekhana involves gradually reducing bodily intake and weakening physical impulses. The text describes specific timelines for excellent, medium, and inferior Sanklekhana (12 years, 12 months, 12 months respectively).
     • Qualities of the Aspirant: The text outlines the essential qualities required for one undertaking Samadhi Maran, such as a desire for liberation, renunciation of sensory pleasures, detachment from family, mastery over passions, freedom from the fear of death, and a strong aspiration for liberation.
     • Role of the Guru and Helpers: The importance of a knowledgeable and virtuous teacher (Geetarth Guru) and supportive attendants (Niryapak) is highlighted. It stresses the need for their guidance throughout the process and warns against unqualified or impure individuals.
     • Preparations: This includes the selection of a suitable, peaceful location (Sthan), the preparation of a comfortable bedding (Santhara), appropriate dietary practices (Charama Dravya), and the administration of purifying agents (Samadipana or purgatives).
     • Rituals and Practices: The text details essential rituals such as offering salutations to Jain Tirthankaras (Chaitya Vandan), confession of faults (Alochana), reaffirmation of vows (Vratoccharan), taking refuge in the Four Jewels (Chatuh Sharan), repenting for past wrongdoings (Dushkrit Garha), rejoicing in good deeds (Sukrit Anumodana), seeking forgiveness from all beings (Jeev Kshamaapana), and the final act of Anshan (fasting unto death).
     • Key Practices Elaborated: The book elaborates on practices like confession (Alochana) of faults in the five areas of conduct (Jnana, Darshana, Charitra, Tapa, Virya Achara), taking refuge in the Tirthankaras, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and Sadhus, repenting for sins, accepting external hardships, seeking forgiveness, and ultimately embracing Anshan (fasting).
     • Ethical Principles: The text strongly emphasizes that Samadhi Maran is not suicide. Suicide is seen as an act driven by despair, anger, or attachment, leading to negative karmic consequences, whereas Samadhi Maran is a detached, conscious, and controlled act of self-discipline aimed at spiritual purification and liberation.

4. Comparative Study with Other Traditions:

   • The book undertakes a comparative analysis of Samadhi Maran with similar concepts in Vedic/Brahmanical and Buddhist traditions.
   • While these traditions also acknowledge the inevitability of death and sometimes allow for voluntary death under specific circumstances (like extreme suffering or to protect dharma), the Jain approach of Samadhi Maran is distinguished by its emphasis on gradual self-purification, detachment, equanimity, and avoiding any form of Aveksha (desire) for the outcome, whether it be a better rebirth or immediate liberation. The Jain method is characterized by its internal spiritual discipline rather than external rituals of self-immolation.

5. Inclusion of Narratives:

   • The Aradhanapataka contains illustrative stories (Kathanakas) of individuals who achieved Samadhi Maran. The book analyzes these narratives, comparing them with similar stories found in other Jain texts like Antakriddasha, Bhagavati Aradhana, and Samveg Rangashala, highlighting their influence and prevalence.

6. Relevance in the Present Day:

   • The study concludes by discussing the relevance of Samadhi Maran in contemporary times. It addresses the ethical questions surrounding assisted dying and euthanasia, clarifying how Samadhi Maran differs fundamentally from these practices. The core message is that Samadhi Maran is a practice of inner equanimity and detachment, not an escape from life or a result of despair, but a conscious preparation for the soul's ultimate journey.

Overall Contribution:

This scholarly work by Sadhvi Dr. Pratibhashreeji, under the guidance of Dr. Sagarmal Jain, provides a detailed and critical examination of Samadhi Maran through the lens of the Aradhanapataka. It sheds light on the profound philosophical and practical aspects of this significant Jain practice, tracing its scriptural origins, detailing its procedural elements, and comparing it with similar concepts in other religious traditions. The book serves as a valuable resource for understanding Jain ethics, the pursuit of liberation, and the spiritual discipline associated with the end of life.