Chintan Ke Vividh Aayam

The book "Chintan ke Vividh Aayam" (Various Dimensions of Contemplation) by Devendramuni Shastri, published by Shri Tarak Guru Jain Granthalay in October 1982, is a compilation of essays and critical studies on various aspects of Jainism, Indian philosophy, history, culture, and literature. The book, spanning 216 pages, aims to provide a comprehensive and multifaceted perspective on these subjects.

The author, Devendramuni Shastri, is a disciple of the respected spiritual leader Upadhyay Shri Pushkar Muni Ji Maharaj. The book is dedicated to his guru.

The content of the book is divided into two main sections:

First Section: Dharm-Darshan Chintan (Contemplation on Religion and Philosophy)

This section delves into core philosophical and religious concepts within Jainism and Indian thought:

• Indian Philosophy and the Path to Liberation: This essay compares and contrasts the concept of Moksha (liberation) and the path to it in various Indian philosophical traditions, including Vedic, Buddhist, and Jain philosophies. It highlights the unique perspectives on the soul's liberation, the nature of reality, and the means to achieve it.
• Contemplation on God: This in-depth analysis explores the concept of God across different religions, philosophies, and scientific viewpoints throughout history and across different cultures. It examines the evolution of the idea of God from ancient tribal beliefs to monotheistic and philosophical concepts, including the Jain perspective which posits an evolved soul (Siddha) as the highest being rather than a creator God.
• Jain Yoga: An Exposition: This essay focuses on the practice of Yoga within the Jain tradition. It discusses the meaning and goals of Jain Yoga, its connection to spiritual purity, the dissolution of karmic bonds, and its role in achieving liberation. It also briefly compares Jain Yoga with the Yoga of Patanjali and Buddhist traditions.
• Leshya: An Analysis: Leshya, a unique Jain concept, is analyzed in detail. It explains Leshya as a subtle karmic emanation that colors the soul's disposition and experiences. The essay explores the different types of Leshyas (black, blue, grey, yellow, red, white) and their psychological and spiritual implications, linking them to colors and modern scientific concepts like aura.
• A Critical Study of the Vyavahar Sutra: This section offers a scholarly analysis of the Vyavahar Sutra, a significant Jain text that outlines the conduct and discipline for monks and nuns. It discusses its historical context, its structure (including the ten Udeshakas or sections), its emphasis on penance and atonement, and its comparative study with monastic codes in other traditions like Buddhism.
• A Comparative Contemplation on Samyagdarshan: This essay explores the concept of Samyagdarshan (right faith/perception), a fundamental principle in Jainism. It examines its meaning, its importance as the foundation for right knowledge and right conduct, and its comparative analysis with similar concepts in other Indian philosophical schools like Vedanta.

Second Section: Sanskriti-Sahitya Chintan (Contemplation on Culture and Literature)

This section explores the cultural and literary contributions and aspects:

• Cultural Tradition: A Comparative Study: This essay likely compares and contrasts Jain cultural traditions with those of other major Indian religions, highlighting similarities and differences in practices, beliefs, and social customs.
• Future Lives of Karmayogi Shri Krishna: A Reflection: This essay delves into the Jain concept of rebirth and reincarnation, specifically tracing the future lives of the prominent Hindu figure, Lord Krishna, within the Jain framework. It discusses the belief in a soul's journey through multiple lifetimes and the attainment of higher states of existence, potentially leading to Tirthankarhood.
• Pattavali Supervision: This essay likely examines the "Pattavali," a lineage record of Jain spiritual leaders and their succession. It discusses the importance of these historical records in tracing the development and continuity of Jain traditions and the contributions of various Acharayas.
• Immortal Female Disciples Influencing the Jain Order: This piece highlights the significant roles played by influential female disciples in the Jain tradition. It likely focuses on their spiritual prowess, their contributions to the spread and preservation of Jain teachings, and their exemplary lives.
• Literary Contributions of Jain Monks: This essay focuses on the vast literary output of Jain monks across various languages and genres. It acknowledges their role in preserving and enriching Indian literature through philosophical treatises, commentaries, epic poems, and devotional literature.
• Prakrit Jain Shvetambar Literature of Rajasthan: This section specifically focuses on the literary contributions of Shvetambar Jain monks from Rajasthan who wrote in the Prakrit language. It explores their linguistic skills and the themes they addressed, connecting their literary works to the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan.
• Poetics in Indian Literature: This essay likely delves into the principles of Indian poetics (Alamkara Shastra) as understood and applied within the broader context of Indian literature, with a focus on how Jain scholars contributed to or interpreted these principles.
• Saint Poet Acharya Shri Jaymall Ji Maharaj: This essay provides an introduction to the life and literary contributions of Acharya Shri Jaymall Ji Maharaj, a significant saint-poet within the Jain tradition. It likely highlights his poetic style, his philosophical insights, and the impact of his devotional and didactic poetry.
• A Contemplative Poet of the Sthanakvasi Tradition: Shri Nemichand Ji Maharaj: This essay focuses on the life and works of Shri Nemichand Ji Maharaj, a notable poet from the Sthanakvasi Jain tradition. It explores his contributions to devotional poetry and his role in spreading spiritual teachings through his verses.
• Upadhyay Shri Pushkar Muni Ji Maharaj: Possessor of Chaturmukhi (Four-Faced) Talent: This essay pays tribute to the multifaceted talents of Upadhyay Shri Pushkar Muni Ji Maharaj, the author's guru. It likely discusses his expertise in various fields, his spiritual leadership, and his influence on Jain thought and practice.
• The Backbone of the Nation: Youth: This essay likely addresses the crucial role of youth in nation-building, emphasizing their potential, their responsibilities, and the importance of their active participation in shaping the future of society and the country.

Overall, "Chintan ke Vividh Aayam" is presented as a work of scholarship and spiritual reflection, aiming to illuminate various facets of Jainism and its place within the broader Indian intellectual and cultural landscape. The book's diverse essays suggest a deep engagement with Jain philosophy, history, literature, and the lives of its prominent figures.