Ashtmangal Aishwarya

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Ashtmangal Aishwarya," based on the provided pages:

Title: Ashtmangal Aishwarya (The Splendor of the Eight Auspicious Symbols)

Authors: Jaysundarsuri, Saumyaratnavijay (as mentioned in the catalog link and implied by contributions)

Publisher: Jinshasan Aradhana Trust, Shilp-Vidhi Prakashan

Core Subject: The book is a comprehensive exploration of the Ashtmangals (Eight Auspicious Symbols) in Jainism. It delves into their significance, origin, historical context, artistic representations, and practical applications within the Jain tradition.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Introduction to the Ashtmangals:

   • The book begins by introducing the eight auspicious symbols that are highly revered in Jainism. Page 1 visually displays these symbols: Swastik, Shrivats, Nandyavart, Vardhmana, Bhadrasan, Purnakalash, Meen-Yugal, and Darpan.
   • It emphasizes that these are "eternal and perfected" symbols ("शाश्वतसिद्ध").

2. Origin and Significance:

   • The text asserts that the concept and enumeration of the Ashtmangals originate uniquely in Jain Agamic scriptures. While other religions might have auspicious symbols, the specific set of eight is attributed to Jainism.
   • It highlights that these symbols are not merely decorative but hold profound spiritual and auspicious significance.
   • The book aims to provide a detailed, research-based exposition of each of the eight symbols, supported by scriptural references.

3. Purpose and Motivation for the Book:

   • A major driving force behind the publication is a resolution (No. 48) from a historical Shraman Sammelan (Monks' Conference) held in Palitana in 2002. This resolution aimed to address the financial challenges faced by Jain Sangh (religious communities) by suggesting ways to increase "Sadharan Dravya" (common funds).
   • One of the key suggestions was to organize auctions (uchhamani) for viewing the Ashtmangals during the Paryushan festival, with the proceeds going to the common fund. This book serves to educate the Sangh about the importance of Ashtmangals, thus encouraging participation in such initiatives.
   • The book is presented as a simplified, people-friendly digest of a larger, more extensive work titled "Ashtmangal Mahatmya" (The Greatness of the Eight Auspicious Symbols), which involved extensive research into ancient and modern Jain scriptures and iconography.

4. Detailed Exploration of Each Ashtmangal:

   • Swastik (Page 20-22): Described as the primary auspicious symbol, its Agamic term is "Sonthiya." It is the emblem of Lord Suparshvanath. The Swastik signifies auspiciousness, happiness, welfare, security, and expansion. Its four arms represent the four paths of Dharma or the four Gatis (states of existence). It also symbolizes the four Purusharthas, Vedas, Yugas, and Ashramas in Vedic tradition. The book notes its strong positive energy and its common usage in daily life and during auspicious occasions. The use of Akshat (unbroken rice) to draw it is explained with three reasons: representing the soul's pure state, accessibility, and the aspiration to avoid rebirth.
   • Shrivats (Page 22-25): The second auspicious symbol and the emblem of Lord Sheetalnath. It represents prosperity, opulence, beauty, abundance, and success. The text discusses the evolution of the Shrivats symbol from its ancient form (often resembling a seated figure or intertwined serpents) to its modern, more geometric representation. It's a symbol of good fortune and is associated with Tirthankaras, Chakravartis, and Vasudevas. The traditional practice of writing "Swastishri" on Diwali account books is linked to the Swastik and Shrivats.
   • Nandyavart (Page 25-28): The third auspicious symbol and the emblem of Lord Aranath. It signifies joy, happiness, and the overcoming of worldly suffering. It is also described as a symbol of continuous spiritual progress. The book discusses its ancient form, which is compared to a great fish or an "Ashtapad" (an eight-legged creature), and its modern form, often seen in temple floors, representing the nine treasures. It conveys a message of overcoming the cycle of birth and death through diligent effort.
   • Vardhmana (Page 28): The fourth auspicious symbol, also known as "Sharav-Sampat" (a container made of two shells). It signifies growth, prosperity, and abundance in virtues, fame, and status. It's used in Jain rituals for holding sacred substances and is broken at thresholds during significant ceremonies like consecrations or initiation of renunciates.
   • Bhadrasan (Page 29): The fifth auspicious symbol, representing an auspicious and beautiful seat or throne. It symbolizes royalty, power, and dignified presence, often associated with Tirthankaras and their celestial thrones. It signifies using one's position or influence for the welfare of others without ego.
   • Purna Kalash (Page 30-31): The sixth auspicious symbol, representing a pot filled with water, signifying fullness, completeness, and prosperity. It's a symbol of Lakshmi and is used in many religious ceremonies as a starter. The book describes the elaborate Kalash used in divine rituals and its presence in temples (e.g., on shikharas). It signifies the completion of auspicious tasks and the attainment of ultimate bliss (Moksha).
   • Meen-Yugal (Fish Pair) (Page 32): The seventh auspicious symbol, representing a pair of fish. It is a symbol of true love, affection, and happiness. The book mentions that fish swim against the current, symbolizing the soul's journey against the flow of worldly attachments. It's also an emblem of progress.
   • Darpan (Mirror) (Page 33-34): The eighth and final auspicious symbol. It signifies the destruction of ego and sin, and represents pure knowledge and self-awareness. The mirror reflects light and positivity, symbolizing a life that reflects virtues and good deeds. It's used in Jain rituals for purification and dispelling negative energy.

5. Historical and Artistic Representations:

   • The book traces the presence of Ashtmangals in ancient Jain art and architecture, citing examples like the 2000-year-old Ayagapata (worship tablet) from Mathura and carvings on temple doorways in places like Kumbhariya.
   • It notes their presence in the borders of ancient Jain manuscripts and the tradition of inscribing them on the "ogha" (brush) of Shwetambar monks and on the doorframes of Jain homes.
   • The evolution of symbols like Shrivats and Nandyavart over centuries is discussed, supported by archaeological and artistic evidence.

6. Practical Applications and Financial Aspects:

   • The book extensively details various ways to raise funds for the "Sadharan Khata" (common fund) through auctions and donations during religious festivals like Paryushan, New Year, Chaturmas, and initiation ceremonies.
   • It lists specific items or events for which donations or bids can be made, such as becoming "Sangh-Shreshthi" (chief patron of the community), sponsoring rituals, honoring individuals, or symbolically performing acts of devotion.
   • It also provides guidance on managing these common funds, suggesting that they can be used for activities other than animal welfare or compassion.

7. Spiritual Message and Philosophy:

   • The Ashtmangals are presented as carriers of profound spiritual messages, encouraging devotion, righteousness, and detachment from worldly affairs.
   • The text suggests that observing these symbols can bring peace, satisfaction, and positive energy, helping to overcome negativity and achieve one's goals.
   • There's an underlying call for continuous research and contemplation on these symbols, exploring their connection with cosmic principles, numbers, and yogic practices.

In essence, "Ashtmangal Aishwarya" is a scholarly yet accessible guide that not only explains the theological and historical importance of the eight auspicious symbols in Jainism but also serves as a practical manual for religious communities to foster financial well-being and spiritual growth through the veneration and symbolic use of these sacred emblems.