Bane Arham

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bane Arham" by Alka Sankhla, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Bane Arham (Become Arham) Author: Alka Sankhla Publisher: Dipchand Sankhla

Overall Theme and Purpose:

"Bane Arham" is a profound guide to spiritual practice, particularly focusing on Samayika (equanimity meditation), mantra chanting, and the principles of Jainism. The book aims to provide readers with a practical understanding of these practices to achieve inner peace, spiritual growth, and ultimately, self-realization, leading to the state of "Arham" (one who has conquered internal enemies and achieved purity). The author emphasizes a balanced approach, integrating philosophical understanding with practical application and personal experience.

Dedication and Inspiration:

The book is dedicated to the author's mother-in-law, Suvadevi Sankhla, whose exemplary life of simplicity, devotion, equanimity, and adherence to Jain principles, including Santhara (voluntary fasting till death), served as a significant inspiration. Her disciplined lifestyle, spiritual pursuits, and the ultimate act of Santhara deeply influenced the author and motivated her to share these spiritual insights.

Key Concepts and Practices Covered:

1. Samayika (Equanimity Meditation):

   • Definition and Significance: Samayika is presented as the core practice of Jainism, representing equanimity and a state of balanced consciousness. It's described as a path to self-purification, a connection to the soul, and a way to renounce sinful activities (Savajja Yoga).
   • Historical Context and Etymology: The book traces the origin and meaning of Samayika, linking it to concepts of equanimity, self-realization, and the renunciation of attachment and aversion.
   • Methodology: It details the preparation, posture, duration (48 minutes), and the core elements of Samayika, including pronunciation purity, understanding the meaning, body relaxation, and concentration.
   • Dozens of Samayika (32 Faults): A significant portion is dedicated to identifying and avoiding the 32 faults related to mind, speech, and body that can hinder the effectiveness of Samayika. These include desires for fame, wealth, pride, fear, anger, doubt, and gossip.
   • Benefits: The book highlights numerous benefits, such as stress relief, mental peace, increased concentration, karmic restraint, spiritual growth, balanced personality, and the development of inner consciousness.
   • Modern Samayika: The author introduces a "Modern Samayika" that integrates traditional practices with modern techniques like Preksha Dhyan, Pranayama, and specific mantras, making it more accessible and engaging for contemporary practitioners.

2. Mantra and Mantra Chanting:

   • Significance of Mantras: Mantras are explained as powerful vibrational tools derived from ancient Indian wisdom, used for spiritual development, overcoming obstacles, and achieving specific goals. They are described as a science of sound and energy.
   • Namaskar Mahamantra: The book extensively covers the Namaskar Mahamantra (Navkar Mantra), emphasizing its supreme importance in Jainism. It is considered a source of all mantras, a destroyer of sins, and the primary auspicious chant.
   • Meaning and Application: The text explains the meaning of each of the five supreme beings (Arhant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyay, Sadhu) and how chanting the mantra with understanding can lead to spiritual elevation.
   • Methods of Chanting: Various methods are discussed, including chanting with breath, visualization of colors, concentration on energy centers (chakras), and chanting through the Mala (rosary).
   • Benefits of Mantra Chanting: Benefits include mental clarity, emotional regulation, physical well-being, stress reduction, overcoming negative emotions, and spiritual protection.

3. Preksha Dhyan (Insight Meditation):

   • Concept: Preksha Dhyan is presented as a scientific approach to self-awareness and inner transformation, focusing on "seeing oneself deeply."
   • Stages: It describes stages like Kayotsarga (body stillness and awareness), Antaryatra (inner journey), Shwas Preksha (breath awareness), and Jyoti Kendra (focus on the light center).
   • Integration with Samayika: Preksha Dhyan techniques are integrated into the Samayika practice to enhance concentration, emotional balance, and the dissolution of negative tendencies like anger, greed, and ego.

4. Other Jain Practices and Concepts:

   • Catuvishtisthav (Loggassa Path): This is described as a short but significant prayer (Saptapadi mantra) praising the 24 Tirthankaras, leading to purification of perception and devotion.
   • Samvar (Restraint): The concept of Samvar – the process of stopping the influx of new karma – is explained as a vital aspect of Jain practice and a key element for spiritual progress.
   • Vandana (Salutation): Vandana is highlighted as a practice of humility and respect towards spiritual guides, leading to purification and the shedding of ego.
   • Pratikraman (Confession/Repentance): While not explicitly detailed in the provided pages, the context suggests the importance of confession and seeking forgiveness for past mistakes.
   • Achar (Conduct): The book stresses that true spirituality lies in righteous conduct and the practical application of knowledge.
   • Ehi! Janao! (Know!): A core Jain principle is emphasized – the necessity of understanding before practicing.

Personal Journey of the Author:

Alka Sankhla shares her personal journey of discovering and embracing Jainism. Initially a yoga teacher and journalist, she found her path to Jainism through the "Dharmik Pariksha Board" in Ahmednagar and the inspiration of Acharya Anandrishi ji. Her marriage into the Terapanth family, deeply rooted in spirituality and discipline, further solidified her commitment. She credits her mother-in-law, Sadhvi Kankshri ji, and spiritual leaders like Gurudev Tulsi and Acharya Mahapragya for their guidance and inspiration. Her academic pursuits in Life Sciences, Yoga, Preksha Dhyan, and Jain Vidya reflect her dedication to a comprehensive understanding of spiritual practices.

Structure and Content Organization:

The book is structured logically, starting with the invocation, moving through the essence of Samayika, mantra practices, various meditative techniques, and concluding with the practical application of these principles in daily life. It incorporates teachings from prominent Jain spiritual leaders, personal anecdotes, and practical guidance.

Key Takeaways:

• Holistic Approach: "Bane Arham" advocates for a holistic approach to spirituality, combining intellectual understanding, emotional engagement, and physical practice.
• Practicality: The book provides actionable steps and practical techniques for implementing spiritual practices in daily life.
• Personal Transformation: The author emphasizes that the goal is not just ritualistic adherence but personal transformation and the cultivation of inner virtues.
• The Power of Equanimity: Samayika is presented as the cornerstone for achieving inner peace and overcoming life's challenges.
• Mantra as a Scientific Tool: Mantras are viewed not as superstition but as a powerful scientific tool for harnessing energy and achieving positive change.
• The Importance of Understanding: Simply performing religious acts without understanding their meaning and purpose is insufficient; true benefit comes from knowledge and application.

In essence, "Bane Arham" is a comprehensive manual for spiritual seekers, offering a structured path towards self-discovery and the realization of one's true potential within the framework of Jain teachings. It encourages readers to embrace these practices to "Become Arham" – to achieve a state of spiritual purity and liberation.