Arya Dharm Athva Vismi Sadina Ary Ane Arya Ghadnar Sanskar - Book Summary

This book, "Arya Dharm Athva Vismi Sadina Ary ane Arya Ghadnar Sanskar" by Vadilal Motilal Shah, published by Shakrabhai Motilal Shah, is a profound exploration of what it means to be an "Arya" (a noble, cultured, or civilized person) in the 20th century, and the principles that shape such individuals. The book is a posthumous work, with the author, V.M. Shah, having passed away shortly after its completion.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the book's key themes and ideas as presented in the provided pages:

Author's Vision and Life's Work:

Lifelong Dedication: V.M. Shah dedicated his life to writing, speaking, and social reform. His literary journey began in 1898 with "Madhumakshika" and concluded with "Arya Dharm" in 1931. This final work represents the culmination of 34 years of experience, extensive reading, deep contemplation, and active engagement with life's various facets.
Evolution of Thought: While his earlier work "Madhumakshika" aimed to guide contemporary youth, "Arya Dharm" focuses on shaping future generations of Aryas and Aryas for a free India. This shift reflects a deep commitment to national regeneration and the creation of a superior human being.
Vast Output: Shah was a prolific writer, publishing numerous books in Gujarati, Hindi, and English, and editing many more. He also edited several periodicals for extended periods. His work spanned social reform, religious philosophy, and political commentary.
Experiential Learning: His life was marked by diverse experiences: engaging with various philosophical schools (Jainism, Theosophy, Nyaya, Vaishnavism, Vedanta), extensive travel in India and Europe, observing societal structures from prisons to palaces, and interacting with people from all walks of life. This rich tapestry of experiences informed his profound insights.

Core Philosophy and the "Arya Dharma":

Beyond Rituals: The book critiques a superficial understanding of religion that relies solely on rituals and outward forms. Shah argues that true religion, or "Arya Dharma," is about cultivating inner strength, developing the "inner man" (mind, intellect, consciousness, and personality), and living in accordance with natural laws.
The Four Pillars of Arya Dharma: The book identifies four core principles for cultivating the "Arya" ideal:
1. Dan (Charity/Generosity): This extends beyond material giving to include forgiveness, empathy for the suffering, offering wise counsel, providing comfort through words, sharing knowledge, guiding the lost, contributing to public welfare, caring for the sick, maintaining cleanliness, promoting beneficial social reforms, rejoicing in others' happiness, and the supreme form of charity—self-care and self-improvement for the sake of self-perfection. True charity is an expression of an evolved inner state, not merely a response to external need.
2. Shil (Virtue/Conduct/Character): This emphasizes self-control, particularly in the form of Brahmacharya (celibacy or restrained sexual energy). Shah stresses that character is built through disciplined actions guided by intellect and a well-developed personality. He critiques societal norms around marriage and procreation, advocating for responsible parenthood and the cultivation of inner strength before embarking on these life stages. He sees women as crucial for shaping future generations and calls for their empowerment and self-awareness.
3. Tap (Austerity/Discipline): This involves the discipline of the body and mind. Shah explains tapas not just as fasting but as mindful eating, physical exertion, controlling speech through reflection, and sacrificing immediate desires for long-term well-being and societal good. He views the body as a vessel that needs to be kept healthy through conscious effort and discipline.
4. Bhavna (Meditation/Contemplation/Idealization): This is the process of mentally dwelling on profound truths and ideals. It involves understanding oneself as distinct from the body, senses, and even the mind, recognizing oneself as a part of the divine, and extending this understanding to all beings and the universe. Bhavna leads to a unified consciousness and a sense of universal interconnectedness.
The "Inner Man" and the "Outer Man": Shah distinguishes between the "outer man" (senses and physical actions) and the "inner man" (mind, intellect, consciousness, and personality or character). He argues that true progress and liberation come from nurturing the inner man.
Critique of Contemporary India: The author expresses deep disappointment with the current state of Indian society, which he views as lacking in inner strength, discipline, and true spiritual understanding. He criticizes blind adherence to rituals, the exploitation by religious leaders and the wealthy, and the widespread passivity and lack of initiative among the populace. He believes this inertia is a result of flawed religious interpretations and a focus on external forms over inner transformation.
The Path to True Liberation (Mukti): Mukti is not a future reward but an immediate experience attainable in this life by cultivating the four pillars of Arya Dharma. It's about achieving mastery over oneself, particularly over the mind and senses, through the development of the inner faculties. True liberation is the freedom from the limitations of the ego and the mastery of one's own being.

Key Concepts and Metaphors:

Rivers vs. Stagnant Water: Ancient Hinduism is described as a flowing river, constantly adapting and inspiring, while modern religious practices are compared to stagnant ponds, lacking vitality and adaptability.
Farming the Mind: Teachers and spiritual guides are compared to farmers who cultivate the "soil" of the inner consciousness (mind, intellect, consciousness, personality) to foster virtuous growth.
The "Arya" as a Cultivated Individual: The term "Arya" is equated with a cultivated individual who possesses knowledge, the power of action, a strong will, and an ethical compass. The word "Arya" itself is linked to the meaning of "well-plowed" or "well-cultivated" land.
Self-Love vs. Self-Esteem: The book distinguishes between false pride (mithyabhimaan) and true self-esteem (swamaan), emphasizing that genuine respect for oneself, cultivated through inner development, is the foundation of being an Arya.
The "Will-to-Live" and "Will-to-Power": Shah touches upon the drive for self-preservation and growth, suggesting that a strong "will-to-live" can manifest as "will-to-power" when channeled constructively through self-discipline and service.

Overall Message:

"Arya Dharm" is a powerful call to self-awareness, self-discipline, and inner transformation. It urges readers to move beyond superficial religious practices and societal conventions to cultivate their inner potential, thereby becoming true Aryas. The book serves as a guide for individuals and society as a whole to achieve genuine progress, freedom, and spiritual liberation. It emphasizes that true strength lies in the mastery of one's own mind and actions, leading to a life of virtue, purpose, and ultimately, a contribution to the betterment of humanity and the nation.