Atmashikshabhavnaprakasha Granth - Book Summary

This Jain text, "Atmashikshabhavnaprakasha Granth" by Buddhisagar, is a commentary on the "Atmashiksha Bhavnagranth" by Premvijay. Published by Adhyatma Gyan Prasarak Mandal, it serves as a spiritual guide for Jains.

The book is structured into several sections:

Dedication: It's dedicated to Sheth Lalbhai Dalpatbhai and his mother Gangashethani, highlighting their significant contributions to the Jain community and their unwavering faith.
Introduction: The introduction by Buddhisagar details the origin of the text, explaining that the original verses by Premvijay were composed in Gujarati in 1962. He mentions finding an older manuscript of these verses and expanding upon them with his commentary, "Atmashikshabhavnaprakasha." He also notes the influence of his spiritual experiences in Pethapur on the writing of this work.
Content: The core of the book comprises verses and their detailed commentary, covering a wide range of Jain philosophical and ethical principles. Key themes explored include:
- Detachment and Renunciation: Emphasizing the impermanence of worldly possessions, relationships, and the physical body. It encourages detachment from worldly desires and the pursuit of spiritual knowledge and liberation.
- The Nature of the Soul: Explaining the soul's true nature as eternal, conscious, and blissful, distinct from the material world and the body.
- Karma and Liberation: Discussing the law of karma, the cycle of birth and death, and the path to liberation (moksha) through righteous conduct, self-discipline, and spiritual practices.
- Ethical Conduct: Highlighting the importance of virtues like non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possession, as well as ethical behavior in worldly life.
- Devotion and Spiritual Practice: Encouraging devotion to the Tirthankaras, adherence to the teachings of spiritual gurus, and practices like meditation, contemplation, and righteous actions.
- The Importance of the Human Birth: Stressing the rarity and preciousness of human life as an opportunity for spiritual advancement and liberation.
- The Gurus and Lineage: The text also includes extensive details about the lineage of Jain monks and scholars, particularly highlighting the contributions of the Tapa Gachchha lineage and influential figures like Hiravijaya Suri, Vijayasen Suri, and Vijaydev Suri, and their roles in promoting Jainism and influencing rulers like Emperor Akbar.
Concluding Prayers: The book concludes with prayers and hymns, invoking the blessings of the Tirthankaras, especially Lord Mahavir.

In essence, "Atmashikshabhavnaprakasha Granth" is a profound exploration of Jain spirituality, providing practical guidance and philosophical insights for Jains to live a virtuous life and progress on the path to spiritual enlightenment and liberation.