Bahenshree No Gyanvaibhav

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bahenshree no Gyanvaibhav" by Champaben, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Bahenshree no Gyanvaibhav (The Glorious Knowledge of Bahenshree) Author: Champaben Publisher: Shri Digambar Jain Swadhyay Mandir Trust, Songadh

Overview: "Bahenshree no Gyanvaibhav" is a compilation of the profound spiritual experiences and knowledge of Pujya Bahenshree Champaben, a highly revered Jain spiritual personality. The book focuses significantly on her extraordinary Jatismaran Gnaan (knowledge of past lives) and her deep spiritual insights, all of which are presented as being guided and illuminated by the teachings of the great Jain scholar and saint, Pujya Gurudev Shri Kanji Swami.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Pujya Gurudev Shri Kanji Swami's Influence: The book is deeply rooted in the teachings of Gurudev Shri Kanji Swami, who is presented as a paramount spiritual guide. Bahenshree Champaaben's spiritual journey and attainments are described as being profoundly influenced and validated by him. His profound spiritual insights, his emphasis on the pure Soul (Shuddhatma), and his clear exposition of the Jain path to liberation are highlighted as the foundation for understanding Bahenshree's experiences.

2. Bahenshree Champaaben's Spiritual Attainments:

   • Jatismaran Gnaan (Knowledge of Past Lives): This is a central theme. The book details the remarkable event where, at the young age of 18, Bahenshree Champaaben attained clear and vivid recollection of her past lives. This extraordinary knowledge manifested while she was in deep self-meditation. She recalled significant events from previous births, including:
     • Witnessing the divine discourse (Samavasaran) of Lord Simandhar Swami in Mahavideh Kshetra.
     • Recollecting her own past lives as a prince (Fatehmand Kumar) in Mahavideh Kshetra, her association with Lord Simandhar Swami and Kundakundacharya, and her subsequent lives.
     • Memories of other past lives, including a life as a deva (celestial being) in a higher heaven, and even earlier lives as an animal.
     • Detailed descriptions of Mahavideh Kshetra, its cities (like Navalpur), the celestial mansions, Jin Mandirs (temples), the divine aura of Lord Simandhar Swami, and the teachings received.
     • The jatismaran also included details of her close associates in past lives, identifying them with individuals present in her current life, including her spiritual mentor Gurudev Shri Kanji Swami.
   • Samayik Tattva Gnaan: The book emphasizes Bahenshree's deep understanding of Jain philosophical principles, particularly through her study of scriptures like Samaysar, as taught by Gurudev Kanji Swami.
   • Vairagya (Renunciation) and Upasham (Tranquility): Her life is portrayed as embodying profound renunciation and inner peace, even from a very young age.
   • Self-Realization (Atma Sakshatkar): The culmination of her spiritual practice is described as attaining nirvikalpa samyagdarshan (unwavering right faith/understanding of the Soul).

3. Structure of the Book: The book is structured to provide a holistic view of Bahenshree Champaaben's spiritual journey and her extraordinary knowledge. It includes:

   • Brief Biography: A summary of her life, highlighting her early life, spiritual inclinations, and the development of her understanding.
   • Jatismaran Gnaan: The core of the book, detailing her past life recollections, often presented chronologically or by theme. These accounts are often written in her own words, as recorded from her recollections.
   • Gurudev's Heartfelt Utterances (Gurudev na Hridayodgar): This section comprises direct quotes and observations from Gurudev Shri Kanji Swami about Bahenshree. These are effusive in their praise, calling her an "astonishment of this era," a "divine personality," an "unparalleled gem," and highlighting her deep spiritual realization, profound past-life knowledge, and immense spiritual strength. He emphasizes her unique spiritual lineage and her future destiny as a Tirthankar.
   • Spiritual Nectar Stream (Adhyatma-Amrut Sarita): This section features excerpts from her writings, particularly from her younger days, showcasing her innate spiritual understanding, detachment, and introspective nature.

4. Gurudev's Testimonials: The numerous quotes from Gurudev Shri Kanji Swami are powerful endorsements of Bahenshree's spiritual stature. He repeatedly emphasizes her extraordinary nature, her profound depth, her ability to remain internally focused despite external circumstances, and her connection to Mahavideh Kshetra and future Tirthankar lineage. He considers her a unique spiritual treasure for this era and highly recommends her teachings and presence.

5. Personal Accounts and Observations: The book includes detailed accounts of Bahenshree's early life, her innate spiritual qualities, her study of scriptures, and her interactions with Gurudev Kanji Swami. Her brother's recollections are particularly detailed, painting a picture of her gentle nature, deep contemplation, and unwavering focus on spiritual pursuits from a young age.

Overall Significance:

"Bahenshree no Gyanvaibhav" serves as a testament to the profound spiritual potential inherent in all beings, particularly within the Jain tradition. It highlights the power of past-life memories (Jatismaran) not just as an extraordinary phenomenon, but as a confirmation of the Soul's eternal journey and the potency of dedicated spiritual practice under the guidance of a true Guru. The book is a source of inspiration for spiritual seekers, offering glimpses into advanced states of spiritual realization and the power of divine grace and guidance. It is presented as a valuable resource for those aspiring for spiritual growth and liberation.