Arambhsiddhi Lagnashuddhi Dinshuddhi

This Jain text, "Arambhsiddhi Lagnashuddhi Dinshuddhi" (आरंभसिद्धि, लग्नशुद्धि, दिनशुद्धि), compiled by Udayprabhdevsuri, Haribhadrasuri, and Ratshekharsuri, published by Shravak Bhimsinh Manek, is a comprehensive guide to auspicious timings for various activities from a Jain perspective. The text, enriched with a commentary by Shri Hemhans Gani, delves into the crucial aspects of selecting the right time (muhurta) for both secular and religious pursuits to ensure success (Siddhi) and purity.

The book is divided into five main sections or "Vimarshas":

1. Arambh Siddhi (आरंभसिद्धि - Success in Beginnings): This section, authored by Shri Udayprabhdev Suri, focuses on "Murt," which refers to the selection of auspicious times. It covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Tithi (Days of the Lunar Fortnight): Details the auspiciousness and inauspiciousness of specific tithis, their presiding deities, and the activities suitable for each.
• Var (Days of the Week): Explains the planetary influences of each day and their suitability for different actions.
• Nakshatra (Lunar Mansions): Discusses the characteristics of the 27 lunar mansions, their presiding deities, their classification (e.g., Char, Sthir, Ugra, Tikshna), and their specific influences on activities.
• Yoga (Planetary Conjunctions): Elaborates on various yogas formed by planetary combinations, highlighting their auspicious or inauspicious effects.
• Graha Dasha and Gochar (Planetary Periods and Transits): Touches upon the influence of planetary periods and transits in Gochara (astral movements) for auspicious timings.
• Muhurta for Specific Events: Provides detailed timings for commencing various activities like starting a business, undertaking a journey, performing rituals, building houses, and engaging in trade.
• Astrology and its Nuances: Discusses the intricate details of astrological calculations, including the significance of planetary strength, aspects, and influences.

2. Lagnashuddhi (लग्नशुद्धि - Purity of Auspicious Ascendant): Authored by Shri Haribhadrasuri, this section focuses on selecting the correct ascendant (Lagna) for important events, particularly marriages. It emphasizes:

• Lagna Considerations: Discusses the importance of the ascendant at the time of an event and how planetary positions within it affect the outcome.
• Purity of Lagna: Outlines the principles for ensuring the purity of the ascendant, including the absence of malefic planetary influences and the presence of benefic ones.
• Marriage Timings: Provides specific guidelines for selecting auspicious timings for weddings, considering lunar days, weekdays, constellations, planetary influences, and the compatibility of the couple's horoscopes.
• General Auspicious Timings: Extends its guidance to other significant events like initiations (Diksha) and consecrations (Pratishtha).

3. Dinshuddhi (दिनशुद्धि - Purity of the Day): Authored by Shri Ratshekharsuri, this section is dedicated to the purity of the day, focusing on a practical application of astrological principles for daily life and significant events. It covers:

• Day-to-Day Purity: Provides guidance on selecting auspicious timings for daily activities, emphasizing the importance of aligning actions with planetary energies.
• Specific Event Timings: Offers detailed muhurtas for various occasions, including:
  • Purchasing New Clothes: Guidance on selecting auspicious days for buying new garments.
  • Starting New Endeavors: Timings for commencing new ventures, businesses, and important tasks.
  • Astrology of the Day: Discusses the influence of the day's ruling planet, constellations, and yogas on the auspiciousness of the day.
  • Remedial Measures: Offers insights into mitigating inauspicious timings and enhancing auspicious ones through specific rituals or actions.
  • The Concept of "Shubh" and "Ashubh": Explains the Jain understanding of auspicious and inauspicious timings and the factors influencing them.

Key Themes and Principles: The text emphasizes the Jain principle of Ahimsa (non-violence) and the importance of acting in accordance with Dharma (righteousness). The selection of auspicious timings is seen as a way to harmonize one's actions with the cosmic order, thereby ensuring success, prosperity, and spiritual well-being. The text highlights the interconnectedness of celestial events and earthly activities, underscoring the belief that aligning with favorable timings can lead to positive outcomes.

Commentary and Accessibility: The commentary by Shri Hemhans Gani is crucial for understanding the intricate details and complex astrological calculations presented in the original text. The availability of this text with a commentary in Gujarati makes it accessible to a wider audience interested in Jain traditions and Vedic astrology.

Overall Significance: "Arambhsiddhi Lagnashuddhi Dinshuddhi" serves as a valuable resource for individuals seeking to conduct their lives and religious practices in alignment with auspicious timings, reflecting a deep understanding of Jain philosophy and its practical application in daily life. It underscores the Jain emphasis on conscious action and the belief that by understanding and utilizing the cosmic rhythms, one can achieve greater spiritual and worldly success.