Bhed Me Chipa Abhed

This document is a summary of the book "Bhed me Chipa Abhed" (The Undivided Hidden in the Divided) by Acharya Mahapragna, published by Jain Vishva Bharati. The book is part of the "Pragyaparv Pravachan Mala-4" series and was delivered during the "Yogakshem Varsh" under the inspiration of Acharya Shri Tulsi. The main editor was Muni Dulhraj, and Muni Dhananjay Kumar was the editor.

The book explores the concept of unity amidst diversity, drawing parallels between different philosophical and religious traditions. It aims to foster a broader perspective by understanding the similarities and differences between various schools of thought.

Here's a breakdown of the content covered in the provided pages:

Core Theme: The central theme is "Bhed me Chipa Abhed," meaning "The Undivided Hidden in the Divided." This suggests that despite apparent differences, there is an underlying unity, and understanding these differences is crucial to grasping the greater whole. The book emphasizes the Jain principle of Anekantavada (Multi-sidedness), which advocates for viewing truth from multiple perspectives.

Key Sections and Concepts:

• Foreword by Acharya Tulsi (Page 8-9): Acharya Tulsi highlights the unique style of Acharya Mahapragna's discourses, which caters to both beginners and advanced seekers. He praises the invention of a style that is neither too simple nor too complex, bridging high-level knowledge with foundational understanding. The book is presented as a significant contribution from the "Yogakshem Yatra."

• Introduction by Yuvaacharya Mahapragna (Page 10): Mahapragna emphasizes Anekantavada as the way to see and test truth. He states that all viewpoints are relative. He warns against clinging to a partial truth and rejecting others, which he identifies as the root of sectarian conflicts. The book aims to present both division and non-division realistically, without injustice to any truth.

• Editorial (Page 12-14): The editorial elaborates on the nature of differences in opinions and beliefs. It acknowledges that differences are natural where individual freedom of thought and expression exists. It poses questions about whether differences are inherently problematic and how to approach them constructively. The editorial advocates for understanding differences without making them a source of conflict, recognizing that differences can also lead to growth and creativity. The core message is to find the "undivided" within the "divided" by adopting a relativistic perspective.

• Table of Contents (Page 16-18): The book is structured into several sections, covering comparative studies of:

  • Thought: Religion and Politics, Uttaradhyayan and Dhammapada, Uttaradhyayan and Mahabharata, Acharang and Gita (I & II), Acharang and Upanishads (I & II), Patanjali Yoga Darshan and Manonushasan.
  • Philosophy: Jainism and Buddhism, Jainism and Vedic Dharma, Jainism and Islam, Jainism and Christianity.
  • Meditation-Yoga: Various streams of meditation, Preksha and Vipassana, Preksha Dhyan and Nirvichar Dhyan, Preksha Dhyan and Transcendental Meditation.
  • Personality: Acharya Bhikshu and Mahatma Gandhi, Acharya Bhikshu and Tolstoy, Acharya Bhikshu and Ruskin, Jayacharya and Marx.

• Detailed Chapter Summaries (Pages 18 onwards): The subsequent pages provide detailed discussions on various comparative topics. The provided text covers discussions on:

  • Religion and Politics (Page 18-25): Discusses the distinct roles of politics (societal structure) and religion (individual development), their interrelation, and the necessity of law and order when dealing with diverse levels of human intellect. It highlights the evolving relationship between politics and ethics.
  • Uttaradhyayan and Dhammapada (Page 25-37): Compares these foundational texts of Jainism and Buddhism, emphasizing the common ground of principles like non-violence and truth while delving into their philosophical differences, particularly concerning the concept of the soul and impermanence. It highlights the Jain concept of Nityanitvavada (the eternal and the non-eternal) and the Buddhist focus on impermanence.
  • Uttaradhyayan and Mahabharata (Page 37-48): Contrasts the moral and spiritual teachings of Uttaradhyayan with the epic Mahabharata, noting differences in their approach to life's goals (Purusharthas), particularly the inclusion of wealth and desire (Artha and Kama) in Mahabharata, which are less emphasized in Jain texts. It highlights the emphasis on spirituality and self-restraint in Uttaradhyayan versus the broader socio-political and ethical discourse in Mahabharata.
  • Acharang and Gita (I & II) (Page 48-57): Compares the Jain Acharang Sutra with the Bhagavad Gita, focusing on the underlying unity in their experiential approach to truth despite differences in language and style. It stresses the importance of direct experience (Anubhava) over mere intellectual understanding and highlights the concept of surrender and detachment.
  • Acharang and Upanishads (I & II) (Page 57-65): Explores the common themes of self-knowledge and the nature of the soul in Jainism (Acharang) and the Upanishads. It discusses the Jain concept of multiple souls (Anekātmavāda) versus the Upanishadic concept of a singular, universal soul (Brahman), and the Jain emphasis on self-reliance versus the Upanishadic reliance on a higher power.
  • Patanjali Yoga Darshan and Manonushasan (Page 65-74): Compares the yogic principles of Patanjali with the Jain text Manonushasan. It highlights similarities in their focus on controlling the mind and senses but notes differences in their ultimate philosophical underpinnings, particularly regarding the nature of the soul and the role of God.
  • Jainism and Buddhism (Page 74-84): Discusses the historical connections and philosophical similarities and differences between Jainism and Buddhism, tracing their roots to the tradition of Parshvanath. It contrasts the Jain concept of Anekantavada with the Buddhist emphasis on impermanence and the Four Noble Truths, and the differing views on the soul.
  • Jainism and Vedic Dharma (Page 84-92): Examines the similarities in ethical principles and ethical codes between Jainism and Vedic traditions. It highlights key differences in their foundational beliefs regarding proof (Scripture vs. Man), the attainment of liberation ( वीतरागता - Vitaragata), omniscience, and the nature of the soul after liberation.
  • Jainism and Islam (Page 92-101): Compares Jainism and Islam, focusing on their approach to social integration, brotherhood, and spiritual goals. It notes the strength of Islam in its social inclusiveness and its focus on devotion to Allah, contrasted with Jainism's strong emphasis on self-realization and the soul's inherent potential.
  • Jainism and Christianity (Page 101-114): Discusses the similarities between Jainism and Christianity, particularly in their emphasis on service, love, and charitable giving (Anndaan, Vidyaadaan, Aushadhdaan, Abhaydaan). It highlights the effectiveness of these social actions in making a religion widespread. It also contrasts the focus on experiential realization in Jainism with the social engagement in Christianity.
  • Various Streams of Meditation (Page 113-132): This section explores different meditation practices like Preksha Dhyan, Vipassana, Hatha Yoga, Tantra, and Transcendental Meditation. It analyzes their philosophical bases, techniques, and objectives, emphasizing the core Jain contribution of Preksha Dhyan as a path to self-realization.
  • Acharya Bhikshu and Comparative Thinkers (Page 123-147): This significant section compares Acharya Bhikshu with Mahatma Gandhi, Leo Tolstoy, John Ruskin, and Karl Marx. It highlights their shared emphasis on non-violence, simple living, the importance of means over ends, and the rejection of exploitation. It points out Acharya Bhikshu's pioneering role in advocating for ethical means and the importance of personal integrity in social and spiritual movements.

Overall Purpose:

"Bhed me Chipa Abhed" serves as a guide for readers to understand the profound connections between diverse philosophical and spiritual traditions. By presenting a balanced and comparative analysis, it encourages readers to move beyond superficial differences and appreciate the underlying universal truths that unite humanity. It promotes a spirit of tolerance, understanding, and intellectual curiosity, encouraging the pursuit of truth through a multi-faceted approach.