Chalo Jinalay Jaie

This document is a comprehensive Jain text titled "Chalo Jinalay Jaiye" (Let's Go to the Jain Temple) authored by Hemratnavijay. The publisher is Arhad Dharm Prabhavak Trust. The book is a guide on Jain rituals, principles, and devotional practices, with a particular focus on visiting and worshipping in Jain temples (Jinalaya).

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and content based on the provided pages:

Overall Purpose:

The book aims to guide and inspire Jains, especially the younger generation, to visit Jain temples and engage in proper worship and devotional activities. It addresses the modern challenges and distractions that pull people away from spiritual practices and emphasizes the importance of returning to the core tenets of Jainism, particularly through devotion to the Tirthankaras and temple rituals.

Key Content Areas:

• Introduction and Motivation: The book begins by acknowledging the challenges of modern life that lead to a decline in temple visits and spiritual practices. It highlights the pervasive influence of media like TV and the internet, which promote what the author terms "Anarya Sanskriti" (non-Aryan culture), leading to generational disconnect from Jain values. The author expresses concern about the youth's increasing indulgence in Western fashion, substances, and a lack of spiritual grounding.
• The Importance of Divine Devotion (Parmatma Bhakti): The book posits that in this "Kaliyug" (current age), only devotion to the Lord (Parmatma Bhakti) can uplift humanity. The author's intention behind writing this book is to draw youth towards this path.
• The Book's Genesis and Reception: The author expresses joy and gratitude for the overwhelming positive reception of the book, citing its multiple reprints and the enthusiastic feedback from readers, including educated youth, doctors, and even those who have memorized the verses of Navangi Puja. The book has been used as a basis for classes and camps by various Jain organizations and monks/nuns.
• Practical Guide to Temple Visits and Worship: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to explaining the correct way to visit and worship in a Jinalaya. This includes:
  • Five Principles of Approach (Paanch Abhigam): These are outlined as:
    1. Renunciation of Sachitta (living things/items)
    2. Renunciation of Achitta (non-living items)
    3. Uttarasan (proper posture)
    4. Anjali (joining hands in prayer)
    5. Pranidhan (mental focus/devotion)
  • Detailed Rituals: The book delves into specific rituals like:
    • Snan Vidhi (bathing rituals, emphasizing purity and minimal water usage)
    • Mukh Shuddhi (oral purification, suggesting traditional methods over modern toothpaste)
    • Vastra Paridhan (appropriate clothing, advocating for traditional attire over Western fashion)
    • Tilak (applying a forehead mark)
    • Abhishek Puja (the glorification of bathing the deity, highlighting its superiority)
  • The "Dashtrik" (Ten Triads): A structured approach to worship is presented through ten groups of three items each, covering aspects from entering the temple to completing the worship, including Nisidhi (prohibitions), Pradakshina (circumambulation), Pranam (bowing), Puja (worship), Avastha (states of being), Disha Tyag (renunciation of directions), Pramarjana (purification), Avalamban (support), Mudra (gestures), and Pranidhan (mental focus).
  • Importance of Specific Pujas: The book emphasizes the significance of various pujas, such as Jal Puja (water worship), Chandan Puja (sandalwood worship), Pushpa Puja (flower worship), Dhoop Puja (incense worship), Deepak Puja (lamp worship), Akshat Puja (rice worship), Naivedya Puja (offering worship), and Phal Puja (fruit worship). Each is explained with its underlying philosophy and significance.
  • Etiquette and Conduct in the Temple: The text provides detailed instructions on proper conduct within the Jinalaya, including avoiding certain actions, respecting the sanctity of the place, and maintaining purity.
  • Inspiration from Stories and Examples: Numerous anecdotes and stories are included to illustrate the power of devotion, the consequences of neglecting religious duties, and the importance of adhering to Jain principles. These stories often highlight the benefits of sincere worship and the pitfalls of worldly distractions.
• Criticism of Modern Trends: The author critiques the adoption of Western lifestyles, fashion, and entertainment, arguing that they detract from spiritual pursuits and erode Jain cultural values.
• The Role of Tirths and Trustees: The book discusses the current state of Jain Tirths (holy places), the challenges faced by their management (trustees), and the importance of sincere service rather than mere formality.
• Call to Action for Youth: There's a strong emphasis on engaging the youth in Jain practices and ensuring the continuity of their heritage. The book encourages them to embrace their religion with pride and actively participate in temple rituals.
• Guidance on Temple Construction and Maintenance: The text offers practical advice on building and maintaining Jain temples, emphasizing purity, proper materials, and adherence to traditional practices.
• The Concept of Jina Puja: The author clarifies that Jin Puja is not just about performing rituals but about the complete surrender and love for the divine, which naturally manifests through offerings and sincere devotion.

Underlying Philosophy:

The book is rooted in the Jain philosophy of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Anekantavada (multiplicity of viewpoints), although the primary focus is on the devotional and ritualistic aspects of Jainism. It emphasizes the practical application of these principles in daily life, particularly within the context of temple worship. The author believes that sincere devotion and adherence to rituals are pathways to spiritual purification, inner peace, and ultimately, liberation (Moksha).

Overall Tone:

The tone is inspirational, instructive, and somewhat cautionary, urging readers to reconnect with their spiritual heritage and actively participate in Jain devotional practices. The author's passion for Jainism and concern for its future are evident throughout the text.