Atma Darshan Geeta

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Atma Darshan Geeta" by Buddhisagar, with commentary by Rddhisagarsuri, based on the provided pages:

Title: Atma Darshan Geeta (The Song of Self-Realization) Author: Acharya Buddhisagar Surishwarji (a prolific Jain ascetic, author of over 150 works, known for his integration of action, knowledge, and yoga) Commentator: Acharya Rddhisagar Surishwarji (disciple of Buddhisagar Surishwarji, known for his extensive reading and devotional dedication to making his Guru's work accessible) Publisher: Sagargachh Jain Sangh, Sanand Publication Year: Vikram Samvat 2017 (1961 AD)

Overview:

"Atma Darshan Geeta" is a profound Jain text that delves into the nature of the soul (Atma) and the path to its realization (Atma Darshan). The book, originally composed in Sanskrit in 180 ślokas (verses), aims to guide individuals towards understanding their true, eternal self, which is considered the ultimate attainment. The commentary by Acharya Rddhisagar Surishwarji makes this profound knowledge accessible in Gujarati, citing numerous scriptural references and elaborating on the intricate philosophical concepts with deep devotion.

Key Themes and Concepts:

1. The Pursuit of Happiness and the Nature of the Soul:

   • The text begins by acknowledging the universal human desire for happiness. It questions why, despite constant efforts, true happiness remains elusive. The answer lies in understanding the true nature of the soul.
   • The soul (Atma) is described as the true self, distinct from the body, senses, and external possessions. Realizing this inner reality is the ultimate goal of life.
   • The book emphasizes that all efforts of past sages, from renunciate kings to spiritual masters, were directed towards this self-realization.

2. The Importance of Atma Darshan (Self-Realization):

   • Atma Darshan is presented as the most supreme achievement, superior to any worldly accomplishment or divine status. It is the destroyer of all sins and the source of ultimate bliss.
   • The text posits that achieving Atma Darshan leads to liberation from the cycle of birth and death, the cessation of suffering, and the attainment of eternal peace and happiness.

3. The Path to Atma Darshan:

   • The text explores various paths and means to achieve Atma Darshan, including devotion, knowledge, and disciplined action (Kriya).
   • It highlights the teachings of omniscient Tirthankaras, who revealed the path to self-realization through their sermons.
   • The importance of scripture and the wisdom of great souls like Haribhadrasuri, Hemchandrasuri, and Anandghan Surishwarji are acknowledged for their contribution to understanding these profound truths.

4. The Nature of Perception (Darshan):

   • The text distinguishes between external perception (using the senses to perceive the material world) and internal perception (Atma Darshan). While the senses can perceive external objects, they are incapable of perceiving the non-material essence of the soul.
   • It describes the different levels of sensory perception, from the single-sensed beings to the five-sensed beings, noting how external perception is limited to the material realm.
   • The true quest for Atma Darshan is presented as a rare and profound desire, accessible only to the fortunate souls.

5. Spiritual States and the Soul's Journey:

   • The commentary discusses the three spiritual states (Bhavas) that influence the soul's perception: Kshāyika (permanent, due to destruction of karma), Upasham (temporary, due to subsidence of karma), and Kshāyo-pasham (partial destruction and subsidence). Achieving Atma Darshan through these states leads to liberation at different stages.
   • The text elaborates on the process of shedding karmic impurities, likening it to refining gold, and how this leads to the soul's inherent brilliance and ultimate liberation.

6. The Role of Righteous Conduct and Equanimity:

   • The text emphasizes the importance of inner vision and the destruction of delusion (Moha) through self-awareness.
   • It describes the virtues of equanimity, non-attachment, compassion, and detachment from worldly pleasures and pains as essential for spiritual progress.
   • The examples of great souls and their spiritual journeys illustrate the transformative power of inner discipline.

7. The True Nature of "Self":

   • The text strongly refutes the identification of the self with the physical body, senses, or external possessions. The true self is pure consciousness, bliss, and power, inherently present but obscured by karma.
   • The concept of "Aham Brahma-asmi" (I am Brahman) or "Tat Tvam Asi" (Thou art That) is alluded to, suggesting the inherent divinity and ultimate unity of the soul with the supreme reality.

8. The Means to Attain Self-Realization:

   • The text highlights the practice of meditation, contemplation, and adherence to Jain principles like Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy/chastity), and Aparigraha (non-possession).
   • The importance of virtuous conduct, purification of thoughts, speech, and actions is stressed.
   • The commentary extensively explains complex concepts like the "Anubandh Chatushthaya" (four essential elements for a scripture's study) and the stages of spiritual development.

9. Critique of Worldly Attachments:

   • The book cautions against attachment to worldly things, including the body, family, wealth, and sensory pleasures, labeling them as transient and ultimately sources of suffering.
   • The story of Aṣāḍhābhūti, a disciple who fell from grace due to attachment to worldly comforts and then experienced profound detachment, serves as a cautionary tale.

10. The Significance of Guru and Scripture:

    • The guidance of a true Guru and the study of scriptures are presented as crucial for understanding the path to self-realization. The commentary itself by Acharya Rddhisagar Surishwarji underscores this by deeply elaborating on his Guru's teachings.

11. The Goal of Liberation (Moksha):

    • The ultimate aim of Atma Darshan is liberation from the cycle of birth and death (Samsara) and the attainment of Moksha, a state of eternal bliss, omniscience, and omnipotence.

Commentary by Rddhisagar Surishwarji:

Acharya Rddhisagar Surishwarji's commentary is characterized by:

• Devotion and Respect: A deep reverence for his Guru, Acharya Buddhisagar, is evident throughout the text.
• Scholarly Depth: He cites numerous references from Jain scriptures and other philosophical traditions, showcasing his vast knowledge.
• Clarity and Accessibility: His explanations aim to simplify complex ideas for a wider audience, making the esoteric teachings of Atma Darshan understandable.
• Elaboration: He expands on each śloka, providing detailed insights into the spiritual and philosophical implications.

Conclusion:

"Atma Darshan Geeta" is a seminal work in Jain literature that provides a comprehensive guide to self-realization. It emphasizes the soul's inherent purity and potential for liberation, outlining the ethical, philosophical, and spiritual practices necessary to shed karmic impediments and achieve the ultimate goal of Moksha. The commentary by Rddhisagar Surishwarji plays a vital role in making these timeless teachings accessible and relevant to seekers of spiritual truth.