Ashtak Prakaran

The book "Ashtak Prakaran" by Anandsagarsuri, published by Anand Prakashan, is a collection of eighteen discourses (Vyakhyans) given by the esteemed Acharya Anandasagar Surishwarji Maharaj. These discourses are based on the first verse of the 10th chapter of the "Haribhadriya Ashtak." The primary theme running through these discourses is the emphasis on "avirati" (non-restraint) and the necessity of overcoming it.

The discourses were originally delivered 65 years prior to the publication (around 1935 CE) at the Laxmi Ashram in Jamnagar. They were meticulously recorded by a devoted follower and were compiled and published by Muni Shri Akshaychandra Sagarji Maharaj. Acharya Shri Hemchandrasagarji, a disciple of Muni Shri Akshaychandra Sagarji, served as the editor.

Key Themes and Concepts Covered in the Discourses:

• The Nature of "Jin" and Jain Dharma: The book delves into the meaning of "Jin," clarifying that it's a quality of conquering internal enemies (kashays) and attaining omniscience, not a personal name of a Tirthankar. It emphasizes that Jainism is not a religion of a person but a religion of qualities and practices that are eternal and unaffected by time, place, or circumstance.
• The Importance of Pratikraman: The necessity of Pratikraman (repentance and confession of faults) is highlighted, differentiating between the immediate Pratikraman when a fault occurs (as practiced by the disciples of earlier Tirthankars) and the regular Pratikraman for both monks and householders. The text stresses that Pratikraman is an essential duty for a Shravak (lay follower) like Namaz for a Muslim or Sandhya for a Brahmin.
• Anadi (Beginningless) Nature of Jainism: The discourses argue that Jainism, being based on eternal truths like the nature of soul, karma, influx (ashrav), cessation (samvar), and liberation (moksha), is anadi (beginningless). Any religion that claims a creator or a beginning for Dharma would need to invent a beginning for the world itself, which contradicts the Jain understanding.
• The Role of Tirthankars: Tirthankars are presented not as creators of Dharma, but as demonstrators of Dharma. They reveal eternal truths and provide the path to liberation. Their discourses are seen as guidance, not as the creation of new principles.
• Karma and its Operations: The text explains the intricate workings of karma, how it binds the soul, and the different types of karma. It elaborates on the concept of "purva karma" and "uttar karma" and their consequences.
• The Significance of Panykkhana (Vows/Resolutions): A strong emphasis is placed on Panykkhana as a means to prevent the influx of karma (ashrav) and to curb the effects of avirati (non-restraint). It's presented as a crucial step towards spiritual progress.
• The Nature of the Soul (Atma): The discourses explore the true nature of the soul, emphasizing its inherent knowledge-filled (jnanamay) essence, which is covered by karmic impurities. The goal is to remove these coverings to reveal the soul's original, omniscient state.
• The Distinction Between External Rituals and Inner Transformation: The book distinguishes between merely performing rituals and achieving genuine inner transformation. It criticizes relying solely on external appearances or rituals without the underlying inner resolve and understanding.
• The Power of Vow-Taking (Pratigya): The importance of taking vows and adhering to them is underscored, comparing it to taking an oath in a court of law. Breaking a vow is considered a serious transgression.
• The Concept of Avidya (Ignorance) and its Overcoming: The discourses highlight the role of ignorance (avidya) in perpetuating the cycle of birth and death and how right knowledge (samyak darshan) is the key to overcoming it.
• The Theory of "Cause and Effect" in Jainism: The principle of "as you sow, so shall you reap" is discussed, emphasizing that actions have consequences, but the Jain perspective is nuanced, involving the intricate laws of karma.
• The Importance of Intention (Bhav): The text stresses that the intention behind an action is as crucial, if not more so, than the action itself in the context of karma.
• The Role of Syaadvada: The principle of Syaadvada (the doctrine of manifold aspects) is presented as essential for understanding the complexities of reality and avoiding one-sided or absolute viewpoints.
• The True Meaning of Adharma (Non-righteousness/Sin): The discourses clarify that sin is not merely the absence of good but the presence of harmful actions and intentions.
• The Need for Self-Reflection and Understanding: The discourses encourage introspection and a deep understanding of one's own soul and its true nature, moving beyond the superficial or external.

The book is rich with analogies, examples, and scriptural references to make the profound philosophical concepts accessible to the readers. The compiler and editor have taken great care to preserve the essence and depth of Acharya Anandasagar Surishwarji's teachings, making "Ashtak Prakaran" a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand Jain philosophy and practice.