Death Before During And After Marathi

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Death Before During and After" by Dada Bhagwan, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Death Before During and After Author: Dada Bhagwan Publisher: Dada Bhagwan Aradhana Trust

Core Theme:

The book, primarily a compilation of Dada Bhagwan's discourses, delves into the profound subject of death, aiming to alleviate the fear and confusion associated with it. The central message is that death is not the end of the soul, but rather a transition. The soul itself is permanent and eternal, untouched by birth and death. Birth and death are phenomena related to the physical body and the ego (the sense of "I" and "mine").

Key Concepts and Teachings:

• The Soul is Eternal: The fundamental principle is that the soul (Atma) is permanent, unborn, and immortal. It is not subject to birth or death. Birth and death are experienced by the body and the ego.
• The Nature of Birth and Death: Every object that is born must eventually die. This cycle applies to all physical entities, but not to the soul.
• The Ego as the Cause of Suffering: The suffering and fear associated with death stem from the identification with the body and the ego. When one believes "I am this body," then the body's death becomes their own perceived death.
• "Who Am I?" Inquiry: The book strongly emphasizes the importance of self-inquiry, specifically asking "Who am I?" To understand the self beyond the body and ego is the key to transcending the fear of death and the cycle of birth and death.
• Death is Not a Punishment or a Mystery to Fear: Dada Bhagwan clarifies that death is a natural law, akin to a balance sheet being settled. It's not a terrifying entity like "Yamraj" (the god of death in some traditions), but rather "Niyamraj" (the law).
• The Soul's Journey After Death: The book explains that after the physical body perishes, the soul, along with its causal body (karmic account) and subtle body, transitions to another state or form. The nature of this transition is determined by the karmic account accumulated throughout one's life.
• The Role of Karma: Karma is presented as the driving force behind the cycle of birth and death. The karmic account is settled at the time of death, influencing the next life. Good deeds lead to favorable rebirths, while negative deeds can lead to lower life forms.
• Types of Death:
  • "Bhav Maran" (Emotional Death): This refers to the daily, moment-to-moment deaths of emotional states and attachments, which are experienced due to ignorance.
  • "Deh Maran" (Physical Death): This is the cessation of the physical body.
• The Meaning of "Pret Yoni" and "Bhoot Yoni": These terms are explained in a scientific, karmic context rather than a supernatural one.
• Understanding the "Evolution Theory": Dada Bhagwan explains that the evolutionary theory is correct up to human birth. After becoming human, one's subsequent births (animal or celestial) are determined by their karma and ego.
• The Correct Way to Deal with Death:
  • During the dying process: Care for the dying person with utmost love and respect. Don't argue or upset them. Fulfill their simple requests to keep them comfortable.
  • After death: Avoid excessive grieving. The sorrow of loved ones can cause pain to the departed soul. Instead, offer prayers for their peace and liberation. Focus on supporting the living.
• Rituals and Traditions: The book addresses various traditional rituals like Shraddha, Teras (13th-day ceremony), and feeding crows. Dada Bhagwan explains their underlying scientific or historical reasons, often rooted in the need to maintain good health or create opportunities for charity. He clarifies that while these traditions may have had a purpose, they are not mandatory for spiritual liberation and are often misinterpreted or misused.
• The Importance of "Pratikraman" (Self-Repentance): Performing Pratikraman with sincere remorse for past mistakes is highlighted as a powerful tool for purifying karma and moving towards liberation. This can be done for oneself and for deceased loved ones.
• The Ideal Death: "Samadhi Maran" (Death with Self-Realization): The ultimate goal is to die with the awareness of being the pure soul, free from any attachment to the body or ego. This state of constant self-awareness leads to liberation.
• The Nature of the Soul's Transference: The book explains that the soul does not take a long time to transfer. It occurs instantaneously at the moment of the union of sperm and ovum, aligning with the karmic account.
• The "Electrical Body": This concept is introduced as a vital component that accompanies the soul and causal body, playing a role in bodily functions and emotional states.
• The "Causes and Effects" Cycle: The continuous cycle of causes and effects (karma) is what binds the soul to the cycle of birth and death. Understanding and neutralizing these causes is the path to freedom.
• The Power of "Right Belief": Changing "wrong belief" (identification with the body and ego) to "right belief" (realization of the pure soul) is crucial for stopping the generation of new karma.

Purpose of the Book:

The book aims to provide a scientific and spiritual understanding of death, thereby dispelling fear and guiding individuals towards self-realization and liberation from the cycle of birth and death. It emphasizes that true freedom lies in recognizing one's eternal soul nature.

Key Takeaway Message:

Fear of death is an illusion created by the ego's identification with the physical body. By understanding the true nature of the soul and living a life of self-awareness and ethical conduct, one can overcome this fear and attain liberation. The book encourages seeking guidance from a living Gnani Purush (Self-realized being) to gain direct experience of the Soul.