Arhat Tattva Darshan

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Arhat Tattva Darshan" by Acharya Shrimad Chidanandsurishwarji. The book, published by Ratilal Chotalal Zaveri, Surat, is an extensive exploration of Jain philosophy and cosmology, particularly focusing on the nature of the soul, the universe, and the path to liberation.

Overall Summary:

"Arhat Tattva Darshan" (Vision of the Arhat Principle), also referred to as "Vishwa Vigyan" (Cosmic Science), is a profound Jain scripture that aims to provide a clear understanding of fundamental Jain principles and their application to spiritual development. The book systematically explains the Jain worldview, covering the nature of the soul, the constituents of the universe, the principles of karma, the path of righteous conduct, and the ultimate goal of liberation (Moksha). It emphasizes the importance of knowledge, penance, and self-control as the means to achieve Moksha within the Jain tradition.

Key Themes and Chapters/Sections:

The book delves into various aspects of Jainism, often referencing classical Jain texts and commentaries. Based on the provided pages, the core themes and their explanations are as follows:

1. Introduction to Jain Principles (Page 6):

   • The text begins by stating that true liberation in Jainism is achieved through the combination of Knowledge (Gyan), Penance (Tapa), and Self-control (Sanyam). Knowledge helps understand the bondage of karma, penance helps overcome past karma, and self-control prevents new karma.

2. The Nature of the Universe (Loka) (Page 1, Page 6, Page 70):

   • The book describes the Jain concept of the universe as consisting of three realms:
     • Urdhva Loka (Upper World): Encompasses the celestial realms (Vaimanik Devaloka).
     • Tiryak Loka (Middle World): Includes the human realm (Manushyaloka) and other realms, spanning 1800 yojanas in width.
     • Adho Loka (Lower World): Consists of the seven Naraka (hellish) realms.
   • It details the structure of the universe, including the dimensions and the arrangement of various regions and realms.
   • The concept of Jambudvipa is explained as a central continent within the middle world, with Mount Meru at its center. The book includes detailed descriptions of its geography, rivers, mountains, and the distribution of various types of beings.

3. Jiva Vichar (Study of the Soul) (Page 6, Page 14-26, Page 43-66):

   • This section is dedicated to explaining the soul (Jiva) – its essence, its characteristics, and its various forms.
   • Jiva: Defined as the conscious entity, the possessor of life, and the experiencer of knowledge and perception.
   • Characteristics of Jiva: Knowledge (Gyan) and Perception (Darshan) are the core attributes of the soul. The text elaborates on the five types of knowledge: Mati, Shrut, Avadhi, Manahparyav, and Keval.
   • Forms of Jiva: Souls are classified based on their number of senses (Ekendriya to Panchendriya), their state of being (Sannyi or Asannyi – with or without mind), their mode of conception (Garbhaj or Samucchim), and their realm of existence (Narak, Tiryak, Manushya, Dev).
   • The Five Samavayika (Elements of Existence): Jiva, Ajiva (non-soul), Punya (merit), Pap (demerit), Asrava (influx of karma), Samvara (cessation of karma), Nirjara (shedding of karma), Bandha (bondage of karma), and Moksha (liberation). These are explained as the fundamental principles of Jain cosmology.
   • Types of Souls: Detailed classifications of souls are provided, including the various types of Jivas in different realms (Naraka, Deva, Tiryak, Manushya), their lifespans, bodies, senses, consciousness, and karmic influences.
   • The Five Samitis and Three Guptis: Essential practices for self-control and preventing karmic influx.
   • The Concept of Karma: The text explains how karma binds the soul and influences its experiences, lifespan, and future births. It details the formation of karma through passions (Kashayas), activities of mind, speech, and body, and attachment.
   • Proof of Life in Elemental Souls: The book argues for the existence of souls in earth, water, fire, air, and plants, citing their growth, reactions, and life processes as evidence.

4. Navatattva (Nine Universal Truths) (Page 6, Page 18-42, Page 71-76):

   • This section elaborates on the nine fundamental principles of Jainism:
     • Jiva (Soul): The essence of consciousness, characterized by knowledge and perception.
     • Ajiva (Non-soul): All that is inanimate and without consciousness, including Dharma (motion principle), Adharma (rest principle), Akasha (space), Pudgala (matter), and Kala (time).
     • Punya (Merit): The karmic results of virtuous actions that lead to happiness and favorable circumstances.
     • Pap (Demerit): The karmic results of sinful actions that lead to suffering and unfavorable circumstances.
     • Asrava (Influx of Karma): The process by which karmic particles attach to the soul due to passions and activities.
     • Samvara (Cessation of Karma): The stopping of karmic influx through self-control, vigilance, and virtuous practices.
     • Nirjara (Shedding of Karma): The process of eliminating existing karma through penance and austerities.
     • Bandha (Bondage of Karma): The actual binding of karmic particles to the soul.
     • Moksha (Liberation): The state of complete freedom from karma and the cycle of birth and death, achieved through the eradication of all karma.

5. Dandaka (Categories of Beings) (Page 6, Page 23-26, Page 101-134):

   • This section categorizes all living beings into 24 groups, known as Dandakas, for easier understanding of their characteristics, qualities, and powers. This is presented as a systematic "science of substances."
   • The 24 Dandakas are systematically explained, covering their physical attributes, lifespan, senses, consciousness, karmic tendencies, and other relevant characteristics.
   • The text provides details on various aspects such as:
     • Body (Sharira): Including types like Audarik, Vaikriy, Aharak, Tejas, and Karma.
     • Dimensions (Avgahana): The physical height and extent of beings.
     • Bonding (Sanghayana): The structure of their skeletons.
     • Form (Samsthana): The shape and structure of their bodies.
     • Passions (Kashaya): The influence of anger, pride, delusion, and greed.
     • Glands (Leshya): The subtle qualities that influence their experiences.
     • Senses (Indriya): The number and nature of their sensory organs.
     • Consciousness (Sanjna): The types of consciousness they possess.
     • Karma and its Effects: How different karmas influence their rebirth and experiences.

6. Laghu Sangrahani (Brief Compendium) and Jambudvipa Sangrahani (Compendium of Jambudvipa) (Page 27-34, Page 135-147):

   • These sections offer geographical and cosmological details of the Jain universe, particularly focusing on Jambudvipa, the central continent.
   • They describe the dimensions of Jambudvipa, Mount Meru, the continents, oceans, mountains, rivers, and the locations of eternal substances.
   • The text provides precise measurements and quantities for various elements of the universe, highlighting the intricate and vast nature of the Jain cosmology.
   • The importance of these eternal substances and geographical features is linked to the spiritual path and the understanding of the soul's journey.

7. Chaitra Vandana Bhashya (Commentary on Temple Worship) (Page 30-34, Page 147-158):

   • This section emphasizes the significance of devotion to the Jain Tirthankaras, the Jin temples, and the idols.
   • It explains the proper rituals and etiquette for worshipping in Jain temples, including the correct postures, mantras, and the philosophical underpinnings of these practices.
   • The text highlights that worship is not merely an outward ritual but a profound expression of inner devotion and a means to purify the soul and progress spiritually.
   • It outlines the detailed procedures for various forms of worship, including different types of prostrations, the significance of specific mantras, and the correct way to approach the divine.

8. Guru Vandana Bhashya (Commentary on Saluting the Guru) (Page 35-38, Page 159-178):

   • This crucial section delves into the importance of reverence and respect for the spiritual preceptor (Guru) in Jainism.
   • It defines the Guru as the source of true knowledge and the guide on the path to liberation.
   • The text details the various types of Gurus and the appropriate ways to show respect and devotion to them, emphasizing that genuine reverence purifies the soul and accelerates spiritual progress.
   • It outlines the principles of Guru-seva (service to the Guru), the types of offenses (Ashatana) to be avoided, and the benefits of proper Guru- Vandana.

9. Pachhakhan Bhashya (Commentary on Vows and Abstinence) (Page 39-43, Page 178-198):

   • This extensive section focuses on the practice of Pachhakhan, which involves taking vows and practicing abstinence from certain actions, foods, or desires.
   • It explains the profound spiritual significance of Pachhakhan as a tool for self-discipline, karma reduction, and the cultivation of virtues.
   • The text details the different types of Pachhakhan, the rules and regulations associated with them, and the benefits derived from their practice.
   • It differentiates between Drravya Pachhakhan (material abstinence) and Bhava Pachhakhan (mental abstinence), highlighting that the latter is crucial for true liberation.
   • The importance of sincerity, intention, and adherence to the vows, even with the provision of valid exceptions (Aagar), is stressed.

10. Karma Theory and Its Implications (Page 11, Page 12, Page 85-93):

    • The book provides a detailed explanation of the Jain theory of Karma, including the types of karma, how they are formed, how they bind the soul, and how they are shed.
    • It elaborates on the eight principal karmas (Gyanavaraniya, Darshanavaraniya, Vedaniya, Mohaniya, Ayushya, Nam, Gotra, Antaraya) and their numerous sub-categories.
    • The text explains the concepts of Abadhakala (period of inaction before karma ripens), Udīraṇā (premature ripening of karma), and Sattā (karma existing in latent form).
    • It also discusses the "Karanas" (mechanisms) through which karma can be influenced, such as Bandhan, Niddhatta, Nikachita, Udīraṇā, Samkramaṇa, Upashamana, etc.

11. Path to Liberation (Moksha) (Page 6, Page 90-95):

    • The book clearly outlines the path to Moksha as the complete cessation of karmic bondage.
    • It details the role of the 14 Guṇasthānas (Stages of Spiritual Development) in the soul's journey towards liberation.
    • The text explains how the soul progresses through these stages by purifying itself of karmic impurities through right faith, knowledge, and conduct.
    • The ultimate goal is the attainment of Kevala Gyan (omniscience), Kevala Darshan (omni-perception), and infinite bliss and power, residing in the Siddhashila at the apex of the universe.

12. The Importance of Jain Practices:

    • The text consistently emphasizes the practical application of Jain principles in daily life. This includes concepts like Ahimsa (non-violence), Anekantavada (non-absolutism), and Aparigraha (non-possession) as integral to spiritual growth.
    • The book also highlights the significance of devotion to the Tirthankaras, the Guru, and the sacred texts.

Educational and Spiritual Value:

"Arhat Tattva Darshan" is presented as a valuable resource for Jain students and scholars, aiming to provide a deep and systematic understanding of the Jain faith. The book is designed to be accessible, explaining complex philosophical concepts in a clear and organized manner. It encourages readers to engage in self-reflection, practice the principles of Jainism, and strive for spiritual upliftment and eventual liberation.

The catalog link provided suggests that this book is part of a larger collection of Jain literature accessible through Jain Education International, intended for private and personal use.